Curating the Cultural Precinct, one site at a time
Work on Stage 1 of The Gold Coast Cultural Precinct has commenced and the site at Evandale will be much more than a construction zone – it will become a blank canvas for local artists. ‘From the beginning of the Gold Coast Cultural Precinct project we have been committed to engaging with the artistic community in creating the city’s cultural hub,’ said General Manager Destry Puia. ‘That is why we are searching for a local artist to showcase their talent from the very start of the Cultural Precinct building works’.
A citywide invitation to artists was issued today, seeking an inspiring and engaging design that will be on display for almost 18 months across hundreds of metres of construction fencing around site. Senior Curator of the Gold Coast City Gallery, Virginia Rigney, is confident the local artistic community will respond to this challenge and that this public art project will further strengthen the Cultural Precinct’s ties to the creative community. Ms Rigney said ‘We were overwhelmed with entries to our Border Art Prize, with over 300 entries for the 2015 competition. This opportunity for a local artist’s work to be showcased in the public realm will highlight the abundance of quality talent here in our city.’
A unique feature of the Cultural Precinct design, being led by award-winning architects ARM, is the naturally-occurring, cellular voroni pattern. Artists are challenged to take this design approach and create their own winning design that will enliven what is usually a staid and underutilised canvas.
A panel of experts will shortlist up to three design that will then go to the Gold Coast community to have their say on the winning design. This will ensure that from the very beginning, this is a true community, cultural and civic heart for the city.
The competition opens today, Monday 24 August, and closes Friday 18 September. All artists from the city are encouraged to enter and share their interpretation of the Gold Coast Cultural Precinct. The lucky winner will be announced Friday 23 October and will be awarded $2,000 prize money.
Further information can be found at http://www.theartscentregc.com.au/opportunities/fencing-and-signage-artwork/
