6 ways to unleash your inner art lover in Canterbury-Bankstown
Canterbury-Bankstown might be known for its vibrant community and rich culture, but its arts scene is just as impressive. A day spent soaking in the local art and culture, with a few tasty pit stops, is the perfect way to experience everything this area has to offer. Here’s how to spend a full day exploring Canterbury-Bankstown’s arts and cultural highlights, with plenty of spots to recharge along the way.
Saturday, 18 January – 1-9pm
Stay for the art
Celebrate the Lunar New Year in style at Bankstown Arts Centre.
Check out cool live art, including a Year of the Snake mural by Christina Huynh and clay flower-making with Ruth Ju-Shih Li.
Shop unique arts and crafts from local artists like Ciellever, Mooody Lemon, Kabby’s Ceramics, Infinite Love Creative and more. Come for the art, stay for the vibes.
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Tuesday, 28 January – Friday, 7 February
Create and celebrate together
Head to your local library for Lunar New Year celebrations. From Campsie and Lakemba to Padstow and Chester Hill, there’s something for everyone.
On 6 February, 10-11.30am at Riverwood Library, enjoy traditional calligraphy, live music and a cultural food tasting.
On 29 January, 1.30-2.30pm at Earlwood Library, join in for fun origami sessions and celebrate with creativity, joy and community connection.
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Thursday, 23 January – 6-10pm
Experience deep time vibes
Head to Bankstown Arts Centre for a night of music, beats and performance exploring the fusion of Country and hyperfutures.
Catch salllvage (Rowan Savage), a proud Kombumerri man, as he mixes on-Country field recordings with electrifying sounds, bridging nature and the dancefloor. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind experience.
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Tuesday, 4 February – Tuesday, 8 April – 10am-noon
Join the dance fun
Step into the rhythm and culture with weekly Chinese dance classes outside Bankstown Library.
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your moves, come join the fun, learn exciting new dances and make lasting friendships along the way. Everyone is welcome.
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Saturday, 18 January – Sunday, 19 January, $15
Book a guided tour
Stories From Here is an audio walking tour that lets you explore Bankstown through the eyes of young locals.
As you walk around, scan QR codes on posters to hear personal stories about the places that matter to them.
What seems like just another street corner will turn into something meaningful when you hear someone’s story. You’ll also get a map to find even more hidden tales from young people in the area.
Bring your headphones and choose your adventure:
A ticketed tour ($15 + booking fee) where a young artist will guide you in person. You can pick between two routes or do both.
A free self-guided tour, take your time and enjoy some local snacks as you go.
A free virtual tour if you can’t make it to Bankstown, available online.
Route A is full of stories about family, personal growth and spirituality, while Route B dives into memories, teen angst and the magic of everyday life.
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On until 1 February
Explore Same Same/Different Art
Check out the 3rd Bankstown Biennale at Bankstown Arts Centre, where 17 First Nations and diverse artists showcase new works.
This year’s theme explores the idea of “same same, but different” – celebrating shared connections while honouring unique cultural identities.
Don’t miss artists like Claudia Nicholson, Gary Lee, Jazz Money, Karla Dickens and Jason Wing.
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