Ref: PR1573
Date: 25/10/07
Work on Wakefield's new art gallery, The Hepworth Wakefield, is due to start in November.
Construction on the waterfront site is set to start on 19 November 2007 to be finished in time for the 2010 public opening.
Wakefield Council's Cabinet Member for Culture, Tourism and Sport Cllr Clive Hudson said: "We are very excited that work on The Hepworth Wakefield will be starting in November. The gallery will open up access to Wakefield's internationally recognised collections and provide new opportunities for local communities, families, schools and visitors to get involved.
"This world-class gallery, designed by British architect David Chipperfield (2007 RIBA Stirling Prize Winner), will attract the work of major artists to Yorkshire, bringing blockbuster exhibitions, cultural events and activities. Artists will be at the heart of the creative learning programme, encouraging and inspiring people of all ages and abilities to learn new skills.
"This is a fantastic opportunity for Wakefield - we are looking forward to opening The Hepworth Wakefield to the public as part of our 2010 Festival of Culture celebrations."
The building, designed by renowned architect David Chipperfield, will feature Wakefield Art Gallery's outstanding collection of works by Barbara Hepworth and other major 20th century British artists.
The gallery will provide the district with a vibrant centre for the community and plays a vital role in the redevelopment of the Wakefield Waterfront, on a highly visible site on the River Calder.
The contract for The Hepworth Wakefield was awarded to contractors Laing O'Rourke Northern Ltd on 19 October 2007.
Visit www.hepworthwakefield.com for more information and to watch the building progress via HEPCAM, a live webcam link to construction site.
Advice, help and funding support has come from Arts Council England, Heritage Lottery Fund, European Regional Development Fund, Yorkshire Forward, English Partnerships and Wakefield Council.
