Gallery keys handed over
THE stage is almost set for Barbara Hepworth's iconic sculptures to take pride of place in the new £35m gallery.
On Tuesday the keys to the Hepworth Wakefield gallery, named after the world-renowned sculptor, were handed over by builders marking the end of the construction work.
This major milestone for the project means work can now start on fitting-out the building on Wakefield’s waterfront.
Work began on the building, designed by award-winning architect David Chipperfield, in 2007.
Landscaping, internal fittings and infrastructure should be complete by the summer and the all-important works of art should be installed in the autumn.
Dan Doherty, director of building contractors Laing O’Rourke, said: “The Hepworth has been a massive construction challenge. Technically, it is one of the most difficult buildings we have ever built – half in and half out of the river – and there is nothing like it in the UK. We’ve even had to build through a once-in-100-years flood that swamped the building.
“We have been temporary custodians of this iconic structure during its construction, and are now pleased to hand it over as a permanent legacy to the Hepworth Team.”
Around 250 guests, including funders, were at a reception to mark the milestone on Tuesday.
Hepworth director Simon Wallis said: “Seeing this many people in the building is fantastic and gives a real taster for the first time of what it will be like when we are open. The space is really ambitious.
“We can really see the quality of Chipperfield’s design now and the natural light in the building is just amazing.
“The sheer scale and height of the gallery spaces is an absolute privilege.
“The momentum is really building now. We have all of our curatorial staff together, working hard and developing wonderful ideas for the collection displays and exhibitions.”
Coun Denise Jeffery, deputy leader of Wakefield Council, said: “The internal spaces are truly inspiring and we can’t wait to see works of art on display in the galleries when the building is complete.
“We are looking forward to opening the doors to a wide audience in 2011 and bringing the very best in contemporary and historical art to Yorkshire.”
The 5,000sq ft gallery is set to open in spring next year.
Email to a friend
Print this page
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Wakefield
Friday 25 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 10 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 20 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 9 C to 21 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: East
