Art
Art Gallery of Nova Scotia new designs presented – Art Critique
While Halifax, Nova Scotia wouldn’t be thought of as a spot known for any modern architectural marvels, the coastal city drew international attention for just that half a decade ago. After the Halifax Central Library was opened, it won several architecture awards and was counted on many lists for top architecture and library design. And if the success of this architectural feat is any indicator of what Halifax’s architects have to offer, then it is no surprise that the recently unveiled proposals for the new Art Gallery of Nova Scotia are nothing short of beautiful.
The initial announcement for a new gallery was in April of last year, stating that it would be a $130-million project. Just last week the three teams selected to compete for securing the contract made their proposals via a live stream. The teams consisted of Architecture49 with Diller Scofidio + Renfro and Hargreaves Jones; DIALOG, Acre Architects, Brackish Design Studio and Shannon Webb-Campbell; and KPMB Architects with Omar Gandhi Architect, Jordan Bennett Studio, Elder Lorraine Whitman (NWAC), Public Work and Transsolar.
Architecture49’s team put forth an open and bright concept with a large stilted platform as the key design point. This would lift the gallery above street level, opening the space even more and doing a bit to prevent visual obstruction of the waterfront. Multiple, separate rooms would line the top platform, and a large amount of green-space would be integrated into the design. Architecture49’s design seems to push for opening up the traditional gallery space to allow for a less imposing part of the cityscape and to integrate daily pedestrian life with the role the space serves.
DIALOG’s team presented a space with a whale inspired design, an arch in the construction creating a covered event space as well as an underground freshwater stream running along the street. With buoys and driftwood utilized in recreational areas, the seaside inspiration is clear, and a planned salon for Black Nova Scotian beauty skills highlights the team’s focus on Halifax communities. However, one aspect of this space that echoes an issue of many art galleries is the opaque walls that separate the public from the art, a contributor to less art-inclined citizens feeling cut off from such spaces. The clear views into Halifax Central Library are in fact one of the lauded features to combine modern aesthetics with openness to the populace.
The final design is by KPMB Architects, and their plan fully incorporates the symbols and heritage of the Mi’kmaq people. The shapes of the building resemble that of an eel, an important animal to the Mi’kmaq, as well as the shape of hats worn by Mi’kmaw matriarchs. KPMB’s plans use a division of the water, separating the outer harbour from an inner lagoon, with intentions of allowing for swimming and research areas, as well as a multitude of other community and commercial attractions. While a somewhat imposing building in the model, it is certainly a beautiful design and seems to integrally incorporate the current and historical significance of its surroundings.
Final decisions on the design for the new Art Gallery of Nova Scotia will be made at the end of October, giving a chance for the public to weigh in with their opinions on the three proposals. With the clear goal to do for the art gallery what Halifax Central has done for libraries in the city, all teams seem keen to design something that is not only architecturally fantastic but is an asset for the coastal community.
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The Courtauld Gallery at Somerset House has reopened its doors to the public after a fire swept through the historic building in central London. While the gallery has resumed operations, the rest of the iconic site remains closed “until further notice.”
On Saturday, approximately 125 firefighters were called to the scene to battle the blaze, which sent smoke billowing across the city. Fortunately, the fire occurred in a part of the building not housing valuable artworks, and no injuries were reported. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire.
Despite the disruption, art lovers queued outside the gallery before it reopened at 10:00 BST on Sunday. One visitor expressed his relief, saying, “I was sad to see the fire, but I’m relieved the art is safe.”
The Clark family, visiting London from Washington state, USA, had a unique perspective on the incident. While sightseeing on the London Eye, they watched as firefighters tackled the flames. Paul Clark, accompanied by his wife Jiorgia and their four children, shared their concern for the safety of the artwork inside Somerset House. “It was sad to see,” Mr. Clark told the BBC. As a fan of Vincent Van Gogh, he was particularly relieved to learn that the painter’s famous Self-Portrait with Bandaged Ear had not been affected by the fire.
Blaze in the West Wing
The fire broke out around midday on Saturday in the west wing of Somerset House, a section of the building primarily used for offices and storage. Jonathan Reekie, director of Somerset House Trust, assured the public that “no valuable artefacts or artworks” were located in that part of the building. By Sunday, fire engines were still stationed outside as investigations into the fire’s origin continued.
About Somerset House
Located on the Strand in central London, Somerset House is a prominent arts venue with a rich history dating back to the Georgian era. Built on the site of a former Tudor palace, the complex is known for its iconic courtyard and is home to the Courtauld Gallery. The gallery houses a prestigious collection from the Samuel Courtauld Trust, showcasing masterpieces from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Among the notable works are pieces by impressionist legends such as Edouard Manet, Claude Monet, Paul Cézanne, and Vincent Van Gogh.
Somerset House regularly hosts cultural exhibitions and public events, including its popular winter ice skating sessions in the courtyard. However, for now, the venue remains partially closed as authorities ensure the safety of the site following the fire.
Art lovers and the Somerset House community can take solace in knowing that the invaluable collection remains unharmed, and the Courtauld Gallery continues to welcome visitors, offering a reprieve amid the disruption.
Sudbury’s annual art and music festival is marking a significant milestone this year, celebrating its long-standing impact on the local cultural scene. The festival, which has grown from a small community event to a major celebration of creativity, brings together artists, musicians, and visitors from across the region for a weekend of vibrant performances and exhibitions.
The event features a diverse range of activities, from live music performances to art installations, workshops, and interactive exhibits that highlight both emerging and established talent. This year’s milestone celebration will also honor the festival’s history by showcasing some of the artists and performers who have contributed to its success over the years.
Organizers are excited to see how the festival has evolved, becoming a cornerstone of Sudbury’s cultural landscape. “This festival is a celebration of creativity, community, and the incredible talent we have here in Sudbury,” said one of the event’s coordinators. “It’s amazing to see how it has grown and the impact it continues to have on the arts community.”
With this year’s milestone celebration, the festival promises to be bigger and better than ever, with a full lineup of exciting events, workshops, and performances that will inspire and engage attendees of all ages.
The festival’s milestone is not just a reflection of its past success but a celebration of the continued vibrancy of Sudbury’s arts scene.
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