When looking for things to do in the city, you don’t always have to go for a romantic dinner in Mumbai’s best restaurants, or grab a refreshing cocktail with your work buddies. Particularly if you consider yourself a bit of an art connoisseur, you shouldn’t pass up on the amazing art galleries in the City of Dreams. From traditional to postmodern and contemporary art, here’s our top pick of inspiring art galleries and museums in the city. You’ll find some of them in our list of the best museums in Mumbai.
1. Jehangir Art Gallery
Named after Sir Cowasji Jehangir, a prominent representative of the Parsi community during the independence of India, Jehangir Art Gallery houses paintings, sculptures, ceramics, photographs, and more. Since its inception in 1952, the gallery has hosted exhibitions by notable artists in the likes of S.H. Raza, Anjolie Ela Menon and M.F. Hussain, among others. It is currently showcasing the works of watercolour painter Amit C. Wagh, but you can also frequently catch a lecture or workshop on different art forms.
📍 161-Kala Ghoda, Mumbai – 400001
2. Method Art Space
Another Kala Ghoda gem, Method is an independent art space committed to represent artists of all genders and backgrounds. It serves as a platform for emerging and established urban, street and contemporary artists to exhibit and sell their creations. Art collectors can purchase the artwork online or at the gallery. With so many different products to choose from, from sketches and paintings to wearables, there is something for every taste.
📍 86, Nagindas Master Road, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai – 40001
3. DAG
Next on our list of vibrant art galleries in Mumbai is Delhi Art Gallery, the world’s largest institution of 18th to 20th century Indian art. Located inside a luxury hotel, it offers visitors a dynamic and immersive experience and introduces new generations to the rich, Indian cultural heritage. Moreover, DAG organises a range of outreach programmes, workshops and events, including Museums Programme about the role of art in the creation of worldviews and Curious Curatorium for young researchers.
📍 The Taj Mahal Palace, Arthur Bunder Rd, Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai – 400001
4. Rhythm Art Gallery
Rhythm Art Gallery is not just one of the best art galleries in the city, it’s also a window into the modern, artistic landscape in India. With experts on site to give you tips and and tailor your experience to your interests and means, you’re guaranteed to find a special piece for your home. The curators have been in the art business for more than 30 years with a mission to democratise art and make it affordable for everybody, so you’re in more than capable hands.
📍 3, Ramjanki, 356, Linking Rd, Khar West, Mumbai – 400052
5. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
If you’re in Kala Ghoda exploring some of Mumbai’s most important sights, you shouldn’t pass up on a visit to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya. The museum displays the history of India from prehistoric to modern times. However, you can also find priceless artistic works of a range of materials and techniques in its interiors, be they local or Buddhist, Asian and European Decorative artifacts. Walk through the sculpture gallery, get acquainted with Chinese porcelain and Japanese art, make a stop at the Indian miniature paintings section, and more!
📍 159-161, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai – 400001
6. Nehru Centre Art Gallery
The Art Gallery of the Nehru Centre was created in 1992 and has since housed a great number of exhibitions, showcasing paintings, sculptures, calligraphy, photography, graphics, ceramics and textile-paintings.
Located in Worli, the Nehru Centre is a great museum to see if you’re in a large group. Why? Well, it’s a 20,000 sq ft space that comprises a Planetarium, an Auditorium, five Exhibition Halls, the Discovery of India Exhibition, experimental theatre, a library and research centre. So you won’t have to compromise and choose to visit something you might not find interesting. What’s more, the art gallery frequently holds seminars, festivals and workshops related to arts and crafts, both for children and adults.
📍 Ground Floor, Dr Annie Besant Rd, Lotus Colony, Worli, Mumbai – 400018
7. Artequest Art Gallery
Artequest houses authentic and original paintings for art collectors interested in contemporary art. If you’re dipping your toe in art collection, the art gallery is there to help. Its experts will teach you a thing or two about investing in art and how to properly take care of your artwork once you’ve brought it home. In addition, they’ve collaborated in numerous national and global art fairs, promoting young up-and-coming artists in India.
📍 A3, 103 – BGTA Ganga Premises, Opp. New Cuffe Parade-Lodha, Wadala (East), Mumbai – 400037
8. National Gallery of Modern Art
Located in the former auditorium of the Sir Cowasji Jehangir Public Hall (hence the huge sign in the front), the National Gallery of Modern Art features paintings by famous Indian artists such as Raja Ravi Varma and M. F. Husain. And most importantly, make sure to check out any temporary exhibitions or special displays, because they often focus on specific themes and art movements.
📍 WRGJ+8H4, Sir Cowasji Jahangir Public Hall, Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Fort, Mumbai – 400032
9. Chemould
One of Mumbai’s oldest and most notable contemporary art galleries, the Chemould was established in 1963 by Kekoo and Khorshed Gandhy. The gallery is said to have played a significant role in shaping India’s contemporary art scene. Over the years, it has displayed artworks and installations by Tyeb Mehta, Bhupen Khakhar, and many others. In addition to hosting regular exhibitions, Chemould Art Galery also engages in collaborations with international galleries, institutions and education initiatives.
📍 3rd floor, Queens Mansion, Ghanshyam Talwatkar Marg, Fort and 2nd floor Sugra Manzil, BEST Marg, Colaba
10. Studio3 Art Gallery
Studio3 Art Gallery has been around for 22 years, aiming to showcase local talent on an international platform. The creative art gallery was founded by art collector Vinita Mirchandani that along with her team have carefully curated special pieces by more than 400 artists. The gallery has a wide range of artwork available for purchase at different price points.
📍 Nagin Mahal, Veer Nariman Road, Near Ambassador Hotel, Churchgate, Mumbai – 400020
11. Jaya He GVK New Museum
Inaugurated in 2014, Jaya He GVK New Museum is not your everyday museum because it is actually located inside the Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. Its extensive collection of modern Indian art set it apart as a destination in itself for travellers passing through the airport. With over 7000 pieces from every region of India spread across three levels, you’ll get a deeper understanding and appreciation of the country’s rich heritage.
The New Museum is temporarily closed to continue construction of its building expansion. Hopefully, next time you have a long layover or a couple of hours to kill, you’ll be able to uncover its treasures.
📍 BIBA, Terminal 2, Navpada, Sahar Village, Vile Parle, Mumbai – 400099
12. Institute of Contemporary Indian Art
Lastly, explore three floors packed with multicoloured contemporary paintings, sculptures and drawings at the Institute of Contemporary Indian Art. Located yet again in Mumbai’s art district, the ICIA was created in 2007 by the Safset group who claim to have launched Mumbai’s biggest, private grass root venue for art. Its walls have seen artwork by the likes of Anjolie Ela Menon, Jogen Chowdhury and Annu Agarwal.
📍 ICIA Building, Rampart Row, Next to Rampart House, Kala Ghoda, Mumbai – 400023