In the early 20th century, geological research began in the harsh conditions of the Far North, and in 1939, a small settlement was founded, which received city status in 1953. Thus, Norilsk emerged as a unique modern industrial, cultural, and scientific center.

The first exhibition hall in Norilsk opened in 1957 in the Red Corner of the Copper Plant. In November 1973, a people's art gallery was established, which became the northernmost state art museum in Russia in 1978 and a center for the city's artistic life.

Today, the museum's reserves hold about 6000 exhibits of various types of visual art. The golden fund consists of works by members of the Russian Academy of Arts, as well as people's and honored artists of the USSR and the Russian Federation, such as E. Bragovsky, A. Gritsai, E. Yefanov, D. Zhilinsky, G. Korzhev, V. Minaev, and A. Slepychev. The collection of Siberian master Andrei Pozdeev and the unique works of B. Molchanov made of leather and suede are of particular value.

The gallery's collection prominently features the work of over a hundred artists from Siberia. The gallery has three exhibition halls, with displays updated monthly.

The uniqueness of the Norilsk Art Gallery lies in the works of local artists and craftsmen from Taymyr. The gallery aims to present its collection more broadly to the audience, fostering a careful attitude towards the culture of the native land and aesthetic perception among the residents. Stationary and traveling exhibitions are held, festive events and museum classes are organized, as well as various museum actions. Active scientific research work is underway: an archive is being collected, scientific brochures and catalogs are published, and art albums are produced.