What is happening behind the boarded-up facade at York Art Gallery? And what can we expect after its £8 million, two year closure?
To find out the answers to these questions, and more about the huge changes taking place at the gallery, York residents can go along to a free event next week.
A series of talks by those closely involved in the transformation will form the basis of an information evening next Tuesday, September 3.
The drop-in event is taking place at the Hospitium, in the Museum Gardens, from 5pm to 8pm and is free to all.
Upstairs key people behind the development will give short talks, while downstairs there will be stalls and information on different aspects of the project.
Mark Hearld, artist in residence during the art gallery closure, will talk about his ideas for his opening exhibition in spring 2015.
Alison Pringle, gardens manager, will lead tours around a previously closed off part of the gardens that will be transformed into York Art Gallery’s Artists’ Garden.
“This is a fantastic chance to come and meet the people busy working behind the scenes to transform York Art Gallery,” said Laura Turner, curator of art at the gallery.
“Curators, the learning team, the gardens manager and the gallery manager are amongst the people who will be giving a series of short talks on their part in the development, as well as answering any questions visitors have.”
There will also be information on the volunteers programme, the funding of the project and the Friends of York Art Gallery. But the event does not include a behind the scenes tour of York Art Gallery.
Schedule of talks
5.30pm Lorna Sergeant, gallery manager
Welcome, overview of gallery development project
5.55pm Gaby Lees, assistant curator arts learning
Learning programmes at York Art Gallery
6.20pm Martin Fell, digital team leader
The History Pin project and how you can get involved
6.45pm Mark Hearld, artist
Background to Mark’s commission – a gallery display for the reopening of York Art Gallery
7.10pm Helen Walsh, assistant curator of decorative art
The Centre for British Studio Ceramics
7.35pm Laura Turner and Jenny Alexander
Fine art displays for the reopening of York Art Gallery
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It will be so interesting to see what it finally looks like when it opens. Hopefully the money invested will make this a great attraction for all. Great project!