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South London Gallery goes state-of-the-art
22 June 2009
The South London Gallery is entering the most exciting phase in its 100-year history as it embarks on an ambitious building project. The SLG has raised £1.6million, largely from individuals, trusts and donations, to restore a currently derelict neighbouring house and reopen it as an extension of the gallery, along with a purpose built education studio at the rear of the building.
The three-storey house will be transformed to create new exhibition spaces, a street-facing café and a flat for a programme of artists’ residencies together increasing the current floor space by 100%. The state-of-the-art Clore Studio will more than quadruple the SLG's current capacity for education and outreach activities enabling it to further to develop its highly acclaimed work with local schools, families, young people and community groups. Disabled access to the SLG is limited at present, but the new development will provide step-free access throughout its public spaces. The SLG will remain open during the anticipated 12-month build with the new space planned to open in spring 2010.
The SLG was established in 1891 as a 'gallery for the people of South London open to the public free, and on Sundays' and has remained so ever since. This building project will cement the SLG’s reputation as a world class centre of excellence for contemporary art. The SLG commissioned Tracey Emin's infamous tent, Everyone I have ever slept with and has since hosted shows by numerous Turner Prize-winning artists including Steve McQueen, Keith Tyson and Simon Starling.
Margot Heller, SLG Director comments: “The South London Gallery’s identity is completely enmeshed with its much-loved building, and the beautiful exhibition space is one of the principal reasons why both emerging and established artists want to exhibit here. Our ambitious building project will enhance the gallery’s unique qualities and character and give it a new physical presence as a vibrant cultural resource which is free and open to all, driving the regeneration of the local area.”
Source
www.southlondongallery.org (launches a new window)