The NSW government has provided $5 million for arts organization Artspace to transform its home inside a 20th century warehouse into a state-of-the-art facility.
The Gunnery at Woolloomooloo, which has been home to Artspace since 1993, was once used as a World War II gunnery instructional centre, and a bulk store for the Sydney Morning Herald.
Its transformation, designed by Dunn and Hillam Architects, will make the space “a more agile and resilient 21st century centre for innovation in contemporary art through expanded exhibitions, enhanced spaces for learning and education, digital connectivity, commissioning and studio practice,” said Alexie Glass-Kantor, executive director at Artspace.
The redevelopment will reorient the entrance to Forbes Street plaza to create greater connection with the neighbourhood and harbour foreshore. It will have expanded exhibition space on the ground floor and the first floor will be upgraded to include spaces for education, outreach, digital broadcast, performance, production and public program space, as well as a commercial kitchen.
The number of rent-free artists studios will be increased from seven to 10 and the project will also include making the facility accessible for visitors of all abilities. There will also be essential upgradesto the waterproofing, electrical and security systems.
“Arts and culture continues to be a source of inspiration and hope, and the key to our social and economic recovery from the impact of the pandemic,” said NSW arts minister Don Harwin. “For almost thirty years, Artspace has called The Gunnery home, playing a significant role in transforming the site to the premier cultural destination it is today. Through Artspace, The Gunnery will continue to be an inclusive place of gathering for communities anchored in Woolloomooloo.”
