Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, April 3, 2024
In a bid to solidify its position as a cultural centrepiece of Tauranga’s urban landscape, the Tauranga Art Gallery has lifted the veil on its eagerly anticipated redesign plans.
Nestled within the heart of the city’s future civic precinct, Te Manawataki o Te Papa, the gallery’s ambitious overhaul is poised to redefine Tauranga’s cultural footprint.
The comprehensive redevelopment blueprint encompasses a spectrum of enhancements, including expanded exhibition spaces, the integration of a Creativity Centre, revamped retail and hospitality amenities, and upgraded facilities.
Notably, the gallery’s orientation will pivot towards Masonic Park, unveiling a new entrance and a meticulously crafted interior overhaul.
Fostering artistic expression
According to Tauranga Art Gallery Patron and former Deputy Mayor Mary Dillon, this transformative endeavour underscores Tauranga’s commitment to fostering artistic expression and cultural vitality.
“The redeveloped Art Gallery is going to position Tauranga alongside other cities around the country, and the world, which take art, and the arts more broadly, seriously regarding their impact on people, communities, human development and wellbeing, and the local economy,” Ms Dillon remarked.
This venture marks the first substantial renovation since 2007 when architects David Mitchell and Julie Stout reimagined the 1960s Bank of New Zealand building into an NZIA award-winning design.
The torch has now been passed to Warren and Mahoney Architects, who are spearheading the latest chapter in the gallery’s evolution.
Principal Vajini Pannila underscores the project’s dual mandate of honouring tradition while embracing modernity. “This extension to the main building represents a moment in the Gallery’s evolution, honouring its genealogy whilst also being fresh and contemporary,” Ms Pannila stated.
Local influences
The architectural vision draws inspiration from the works of local artists, notably Maraea Timutimu (Ngāi Tūhoe, Ngāti Ranginui, Ngāi Te Rangi), whose thematic exploration of layering, connection, and composition has informed the design ethos.
The infusion of organic materials like Hineura stone and mid-century brass accents lends the gallery a timeless sophistication, seamlessly melding with its natural surroundings.
However, amidst the grandeur of this ambitious undertaking, pragmatic considerations have necessitated additional seismic strengthening work to ensure the gallery’s long-term sustainability.
Future-proofing the project
To bridge the financial gap, the Tauranga Art Gallery Trust has brokered a landmark deal with the Tauranga City Council, involving the sale and subsequent leaseback of the gallery’s land.
Rosemary Protheroe, Chair of the Tauranga Art Gallery Trust Board, emphasised the imperative of balancing fiscal prudence with the imperative of future-proofing this cultural gem.
“The Trust is committed to the full scope of this project and future-proofing this important community asset, while also minimising the time the Gallery is closed to the public,” Ms Protheroe affirmed.
Tauranga City Council Commission Chair Anne Tolley echoed sentiments of support, underlining the pivotal role cultural institutions play in fostering community cohesion and enriching civic life. “The Council recognises the great value cultural institutions like the Art Gallery provide a city and region,” Tolley remarked.
Former Tauranga Art Gallery Chair Graeme Horsley hailed the redevelopment as a testament to the institution’s enduring legacy. “The Art Gallery was set up as an artistic and architectural landmark designed to deliver cultural, social and economic benefits to the region,” Mr Horsley reflected, “and this redesign and redevelopment herald the start of the next chapter.”
As anticipation mounts for the gallery’s grand reopening, slated for early 2025, the institution remains steadfast in its commitment to transparency and community engagement. Public open days at the gallery’s pop-up venue on Devonport Road offer a tantalising glimpse into the future, inviting residents and visitors alike to partake in shaping Tauranga’s cultural narrative.
Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.
