The Hepworth Wakefield: Yorkshire's major new art gallery

IV Inspiring things to come
‘The Hepworth Wakefield was chosen [for the Tate Connects Programme] for
the aspirations and quality of its programmes, the links and synergies with the
artist Barbara Hepworth, and for the superb new building by the architect David
Chipperfield. Through Tate Connects the people of Wakefield will have direct access
to the national collection of British, modern and contemporary art from the 15th
Century through to the present day.’
— Noelle Goldman Jacobs, Head of Tate Connects
The Hepworth Wakefield is Yorkshire’s major new art gallery opening on
Wakefield’s historic waterfront in 2011. Designed by acclaimed British architect
David Chipperfield – winner of the 2007 RIBA Stirling Prize for architecture – The
Hepworth Wakefield will unveil a previously unseen collection of sculptures by
Barbara Hepworth, one of the most important artists of the 20th Century who was
born and raised in Wakefield. As well as showcasing and exploring Hepworth’s
work, The Hepworth Wakefield’s ambitious, modern architecture will provide a
fitting home for its outstanding collection of art spanning the 16th Century to the
present day.
The gallery has 600 square metres of space for temporary exhibitions, making it one
of the largest contemporary exhibition venues outside of London. The high quality
spaces feature a mix of artificial and natural light, using a mix of top-lighting from
ceiling-height ‘slot boxes’ and strategically placed windows which provide views of
the River Calder. The galleries will also be adaptable to allow for full black-out and
are equipped to enable multi-media installations. The Hepworth Wakefield will be
able to host ambitious temporary exhibitions that will bring the best international
contemporary art and historical shows to Yorkshire.
The Hepworth Wakefield’s state of the art learning centre will offer a vibrant education
programme and a memorable experience for all our visitors. Workshops led by
professional artists will inspire children and young people and enable communities
to develop their creative potential. In addition, visitors will be able to attend regular
concerts, film screenings, lectures and workshops exploring contemporary and
historical art, architecture and design or simply relax with family and friends in our
high-quality restaurant and café offering seasonal, locally-sourced food.