My Account
Getting the extension built required a significant investment of public money and it is hoped that the community will gain a lot from the art education courses that the centre can provide in the new space.
The project was seen through to fruition thanks to funding and support from the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board, which committed more than half a million dollars.
In total the 270sqm extension to the centre’s Western Reserve building has cost more than $1.1 million – significant contributions were made by ASB, NZ Lotteries and the Auckland Regional Services Trust, as well as money raised by the centre itself.
Hibiscus & Bays Local Board chair Julia Parfitt says that the wing will help make the centre more self-sustaining.
“The running of arts classes will return a steady and improved income stream to support the centre’s financial sustainability and viability. It will soon be able to offer classes for all ages, abilities and interests, as well as continuing to be an exhibition space for local artists,” Julia says.
Construction of the extension has taken eight-and-a-half months: work began on site at the end of March. The new wing includes a foyer, a 3D studio and attached kiln room for sculptural work including ceramics, special effects, glass and jewellery, a large studio for painting and drawing classes, kitchenette and storage.
The exterior is made of Cedar with Macrocarpa battens, and is being left to weather naturally. A deck overlooks the reserve.
The downstairs room formerly used for arts education will be converted into a print studio.
Now that the wing is open, work is expected to begin on updating the existing building.
For the first few months the wing will be where the Cash and Carry exhibition and sale is located, after which it will be turned over to arts education programmes for the community. The arts programme begins early in February and will offer something for all ages and abilities, in a wide variety of arts media.
A comprehensive school holiday programme will also be developed for children aged 5-16 years. Studios in the new wing will be available for morning, afternoon and evening sessions, seven days a week. The large foyer area will be used for artist talks and presentations.
Estuary Arts Centre still needs to fundraise for chairs, tables, easels and some other equipment for the fit out of the new wing, so if anyone can help, contact the centre during office hours, or email manager@estuaryarts.org
Funding facts:
Total budget for this project was $1,114,958. This was made up from the following grants and providers: ASB: $150,000; NZ Lotteries: $240,000; Auckland Regional Services Trust: $175,000 (plus additional $17,500 in interest held); Estuary Arts Centre Trust: $10,000; Auckland Council/Hibiscus and Bays Local Board: $522,458.
