Glynn Vivian transformation progressing for summer 2016 opening

Scaffolding is coming down and finishing touches are being put to the project to transform Swansea’s Glynn Vivian Art Gallery into a destination of international significance.

Comprehensive redevelopment works scheduled for completion in the late autumn this year include a new lecture space as well as conservation, library, exhibition, learning and community spaces.

There’ll also be a new, fully accessible entrance and a collection store for the art collection that means more people than ever will enjoy greatly improved access to the artworks.

The redevelopment works are being funded by the Arts Council of Wales, the Welsh Government, the Heritage Lottery Fund, Cadw and Swansea Council. Funding was also secured through the Building Enhancement Programme grant scheme run by Swansea Council and funded by the European Regional Development Fund.

A new state-of-the-art extension will link to the historic buildings, including the grade two listed 1911 gallery, which is benefitting from complete restoration and improvements to facilities and access. This includes lifts and hearing loops to ensure the Glynn Vivian is fit for the 21st Century.

Major preparations for the gallery’s public re-opening late next summer will start once physical works have finished.

Cllr Robert Francis-Davies, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Enterprise, Development and Regeneration, said: “It is great to see the progress in the building works with scaffolding coming down as we enter the crucial final phases. The redevelopment of the Glynn Vivian Art Gallery will support Swansea’s reputation as a place for innovation, creativity and excellence, putting us on a par with other leading cities in the UK. The gallery’s new lease of life will ensure it’s at the heart of the cultural profile of the region and the city centre’s regeneration in future.

“There have been delays in the completion of the works because of a number of factors, including the physical confines of the site and our first contractor going into administration, but we’re still on track to re-open the attraction to the public late next summer.

“Once the major structural works have finished on site late this autumn, the significant process of transporting, unpacking and carefully handling the many thousands of artworks, including ceramics, paintings, sculptures and works on paper, will start. The installation of new exhibition displays and the preparation of public and learning areas will also then take place to pave the way for re-opening.

“The hugely successful off-site programme of events and activities will continue until the gallery building has re-opened.”

Have a look at www.swansea.gov.uk/glynnvivian for more information or call 01792 516900.