The Hepworth Wakefield: Yorkshire's major new art gallery

I Yorkshire’s major new art gallery
The Hepworth Wakefield is a unique combination of the best contemporary
architecture and art in dialogue with the history and achievements embodied in
our collection and the work of Barbara Hepworth. It will be a place for enjoyment,
inspiration, socialising, learning, debating and business and will take its place
alongside Yorkshire Sculpture Park, The Henry Moore Institute and Leeds Art Gallery
to make Yorkshire a key destination for those who love the best in art, architecture
and design, as well as those having their very first experience of an art gallery.
I have long found Barbara Hepworth’s work and life fascinating and inspiring. I am
intrigued by the tension and resolution between figuration and abstraction in her
sculptures, as well as her remarkable craftsmanship and feeling for materials, form
and place. These are all interests that I carry through into my work with contemporary
artists and will be reflected in the programme at The Hepworth Wakefield, which
along with all our visitors, will give life to this very special building.
My work at Kettle’s Yard, Tate Liverpool, ICA London and Chisenhale Gallery
has focused on making modern and contemporary art accessible to the whole
community and finding and working with the potential major artists of the next
generation. I’m delighted to bring my experience and ambition to this flagship
project for the enjoyment and benefit of local people, artists and the many visitors
we’ll receive in Wakefield from all over the world.
I look forward eagerly to the opening of The Hepworth Wakefield and welcoming
you warmly, along with our team, to what will undoubtedly be one of Britain’s finest
art galleries, able to show its collection in full for the first time as well as bringing
world-class exhibitions to the region.
Simon Wallis
Director – The Hepworth Wakefield