The Latrobe Regional Gallery will start work immediately on a $1.1 million refurbishment to transform it into a world class exhibition space, bringing it into line with international standards so it can bid for, and host, major international exhibitions in 2017.
The project includes upgrades to the façade, foyer and entrance, enhanced lighting and improved accessibility.
The works will also include installing a compactus and improving the storage, shelving, security and climate control systems.
The project will enhance the experience for visitors and bring the gallery in line with contemporary museum standards, which will enable it to host exhibitions and loan artworks, from galleries and museums across the world.
The upgrades will set the Gallery’s place as a nationally recognised gallery of excellence, benefiting not only the Latrobe Valley but the whole Gippsland region.
Major exhibitions to be hosted by the Gallery once works are complete will be announced in the new year. It is anticipated that these drawcard exhibitions will bring up to 60,000 people to the area across 2017.
The project has been funded by $770,000 grant from the Victorian Government, with the remainder contributed by Latrobe City Council.
The Gallery has serviced the region since 1972. It holds an extensive collection of more than 1,400 works of art, ranging from rare historical works which reference the Gippsland region through to contemporary artworks and sculpture.
Photo credit: NAAU Studio