Date: November 2003Source: Royal Institute Of British Architects (RIBA)
David Chipperfield Architects has won a prestigious competition to design the multi-million pound Gallery and Centre for Creative Arts on the waterfront in Wakefield. The successful practice fought off strong competition from five other high profile teams including Adjaye Associates; Zaha Hadid Architects; Kengo Kuma and Associates; Snøhetta & Spence; and Walters and Cohen. The new gallery will house the original plaster sculptures of internationally renowned sculptor, Barbara Hepworth, who was born in Wakefield. Her family who were represented on the judging panel by her son-in-law, Sir Alan Bowness, have expressed a wish that the collection is displayed in her home town as a tribute to her life and work. Wakefield's own impressive art collection, and an adventurous programme of contemporary art will also be shown in the Gallery. Wakefield Council's Chief Executive, John Foster who chaired the judging panel, said: "The standard was extremely high and the architects have certainly proved themselves worthy of the task of designing a world-class Gallery. The winning concept has captured everyone's imagination and, we feel, will really provide Wakefield with a building of quality." Terry Pawson, RIBA Adviser, commented: "The jury were unanimous in selecting the proposal by David Chipperfield and were particularly impressed by the architect's thoughtful and considered approach to both the site and the Wakefield art collection. The architect has placed an emphasis on developing an elegant and timeless building, with human scaled gallery spaces that will compliment the collection, and will make a delightful and sustainable gallery environment." David Chipperfield said: "We are delighted to have been selected as architect for this project to start the redevelopment of Wakefield's Waterfront. We aim to provide the city and its community with a new and vibrant location for the city's exceptional art collection, in particular, the inestimable gift from the Hepworth Estate." The council gave its full commitment to the scheme in July this year approving a £3 million contribution to the Gallery, an increased revenue contribution to cover its running costs and the go-ahead to obtain technical project management to oversee the Gallery project through to completion.
