Hailed as the state's oldest regional gallery in the metropolitan area, the venue was established following the introduction of an art competition held during the 1920s. Its winner was James R. Jackson with his artwork entitled ‘Middle Harbour from Manly Heights’.
The artwork was so popular that locals lobbied successfully for Manly Council to buy it. In 1930, following many donations of artworks by citizens and artists, the public gallery was established. Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan said that donated works at the gallery now total more than 6,800 adding:
“Thanks to the ongoing support and generosity of many, including the Gallery Society, MAG&M now has an incredibly diverse and unique collection encompassing paintings, ceramics, photography and objects relating to our beach culture."
Iconic facilities such as the art gallery often use brochure printing services to provide additional information on exhibitions to visitors.
The museum and art gallery has been a hit among locals and tourists with annual visitors exceeding 100,000. The work exhibited represents a wide array of interests and incorporates artwork covering all disciplines.
The venue also supports young and new artists as part of its Art Express exhibition, which is held annually and features the artwork of Higher School Certificate students.