[1] The gallery is situated along Jalan Tun Razak, on the northern edge of central Kuala Lumpur.

Mir Shariman of Arkitek MAA Sdn Bhd, with gallery spaces flanking the circular ramp serve as exhibition areas for more intimate and contemplative viewing.

The first exhibition on 28 August 1958, by Tunku Abdul Rahman, the first Prime Minister of Malaysia as the Balai Seni Lukisan Negara or 'National Art Gallery.

The gallery which was established since 1958, had thrived for 25 years in a temporary abode at the Dewan Tunku Abdul Rahman, the country's first House of Parliament on the site known today as the Malaysian Tourism Center .

It is also within walking distance from the Hospital Kuala Lumpur MRT station on the Putrajaya Line.