Arts & culture

NSW has a rich cultural tapestry woven from its First Nations heritage, colonial history, and modern multiculturalism. * **First Nations Heritage:** The state encompasses the traditional lands of many Aboriginal nations, including the Eora, Darug, Wiradjuri, and Kamilaroi. Rock art and heritage sites are protected in national parks. * **Museums & Galleries:** The Art Gallery of New South Wales, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA), and the Australian Museum (the oldest museum in Australia) are premier institutions. * **Performing Arts:** The Sydney Opera House hosts resident companies like the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Opera Australia, and the Sydney Theater Company. Bangarra Dance Theater is a world-renowned Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander modern dance company. * **Festivals:** Vivid Sydney transforms the capital with light installations and projections each winter.