ztB0BYUPqzA&feature=related

Facts:

- Completion date mid-2011
- Costs $113 million (Central Government $30 million, Auckland City Council $48.1 million, Auckland Art Gallery Foundation $33.4 million)
- Creates 50% more space for displays

http://www.aucklandartgallery.govt.nz/images/redev.jpg

After watching the above video, I was shocked at how impressive this project is. IMO the extension enhances the beauty of the original building. I was pretty worried the conflicting styles wouldn't mesh, but I've been proved wrong.

Auckland Art Gallery

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2507/3974737445_99b94efc3a_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2473/3974738795_45d5ed78a2_o.jpg

It will be a magnificent public space for all Aucklanders to enjoy. :banana:

Recent Updates >>>
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/2010/IMG_0082.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/2010/IMG_0083.jpg

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http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/2010/IMG_0089-1.jpg

A reminder>>>
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/2010/Screenshot2010-02-06at124624PM.png

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/2010/Screenshot2010-02-06at10920AM.png

Roof is going up fast, and the front got unwrapped the other day. It's all painted in a new darker gray paint to return the building to its appearance in 1887. Not sure I liked it at first but think its grown on me and think its looking great.

Also notice the nice details of new 'cresting'. Something you'll hardly see from the ground.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_4rsRN_fLpI0/S8vLOwibITI/AAAAAAAAA-U/PhZbHyuXH-w/s800/IMG_7472.jpg

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http://lh3.ggpht.com/_4rsRN_fLpI0/S8vLOjMpAgI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/5A8jbCAsXZI/s800/IMG_7468.jpg

Starting to lay slate slab exterior...

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_mQZRLHeO5cg/S-TaSzWvjWI/AAAAAAAAAvo/D3ZkCl0b4rs/s512/P1020479.JPG

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_mQZRLHeO5cg/S-TaP_jv5lI/AAAAAAAAAvk/tg0L6xX_E0E/s720/P1020478.JPG

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_mQZRLHeO5cg/S-Tvh3hBZ0I/AAAAAAAAAyM/D9SFOTXnfiw/s512/P1020477.JPG

Also noticed laminated native timber ceiling going in. This building will be spectacular!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/2010/IMG_0217.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/2010/IMG_0218.jpg

Nice to see a cultural institution being given an upgrade :)

This looks a lot more appropriate than the horrible extension of the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney, they should take note of what is going on in this project

I like pretty much everything about this development. It utilizes and links with the original building wonderfully, opens up to the park behind and looks great.

It also is quite a large addition considering it is much larger than the original building. Though to be honest, the original art gallery was embarrassingly small. This development will not only take it up to a decent size for a city of Auckland's size and location, but also do it right.

I only wish it was finished when I visited a couple of months ago.

TVeRzKNuWdI

TVeRzKNuWdI

That's how a restoration & upgrade of a character building ought to be done.

Great find drosophila. It is going to be great to visit the new gallery - and cafe's.

Nice video. Never realised how much larger the renovation has made the gallery.

http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm228/rytc1980/Art.jpg

Hawkins Construction Ltd and their associated contractor teams have now worked in excess of 500,000 hours on the art gallery building development project.

The daylit gallery (level 2) roof sarking is substantially complete and the installation of roof skylights is progressing. The installation and testing of the roof membrane for the south atrium is also now complete. In the heritage areas, the walls, ceilings and paired columns of the East Gallery are progressing, finished wall surfaces in the Wellesley Wing are painted and floor levelling in the Kitchener Wing has begun.

Concept plans for reducing a portion of Kitchener Street to one lane are being progressed, with support from transport, CBD projects and the gallery project team, for consultation with neighbours. The accompanying widening of the footpath, and the cost to achieve this, is under review.


The area of Kitchener street to be narrowed:

http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm228/rytc1980/Screenshot2010-07-08at14652PM.png

Concept plans for reducing a portion of Kitchener Street to one lane are being progressed, with support from transport, CBD projects and the gallery project team, for consultation with neighbours. The accompanying widening of the footpath, and the cost to achieve this, is under review.

Yes Please. This is practical on my doorstep. That end of Kitchener is such a gauntlet with cars hooning it down Wellesley and up Kitchener as fast as their wheels will take em - highly risky area for peds & seen plenty of near misses.
There is a lot of student traffic coming across from Khartoum Place, and also at the Kitchener/Wellesley corner which would really benefit from this. Could tie in nicely with the Khartoum Place upgrade.

Great find drosophila. It is going to be great to visit the new gallery - and cafe's.

Agree...an excellent addition to Auckland
Would be great ( my thoughts) to intergrate, some kind of funky covered walking overbridge connecting The Art Gallery/Library/ A future St James and the Edge

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4100/4789292719_f0ebb2b5a5_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/4789292719/)

One of the world's best art collections may go on show when the Auckland Art Gallery reopens next year.

Gallery director Chris Saines said he hoped all 15 Robertson Collection paintings would be here by mid-2011 for the opening, displaying 1875 to 1951 works by Paul Cezanne, Paul Gauguin, Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Piet Mondrian, Salvador Dali, Georges Braque, Andre Derain and others.

"But it depends on whether Julian [Robertson] will be able to get everything here," he said of the billionaire benefactor.

Five adjoining spaces and more than 400sq m of floorspace on level one of the Kitchener Wing will be used for the Julian and Josie Robertson galleries and work there is almost finished.

Floor levels have been evened, partitions built and a new suspended ceiling installed, recessed from the walls to show off the ornate plaster cornices in the 1800s building.

Plywood covers the floor but when the galleries open, these will be clad in American oak.

Other galleries will be named after benefactors. Saines said Harriet and Michael Friedlander had made "a phenomenal contribution to the gallery over the years" and a gallery would be named after them, along with the Gibbs' Family Gallery on level one of the new building to display contemporary New Zealand art, named after Jenny and Alan Gibbs.

The entire gallery has 14,620 works of art, most stored off-site at secret locations until next year's reopening.

Saines said the $121 million upgrade would "oxygenate" the collection and allow about 800 works to be displayed at any one time.

A multi-level building has been developed at the waterfront end, increasing floorspace by 75 per cent but allowing a 130 per cent display space increase, he said.

A learning centre has been built and the Southern Hemisphere's largest glass tension facade will clad the face of the new addition.

"An engineer from Holmes Consulting described it as a 'look-Mum-no-hands' atrium because it won't look like the glass is supported by anything," Saines said.

The East Gallery's mezzanine floor has been removed and the area previously used for storage has become a gallery with natural light flooding down from roof-top windows encased in a railway carriage-style structure.

Ornate plaster work and cornices have been reinstated, true to the original interior and East has been returned to its original configuration.

Hawkins Constructions' tower crane on the site is due to be dismantled soon.

AUCKLAND ART GALLERY
* $121 million renovation/strengthening/extension.
* Hawkins Construction handover early next year.
* Open to the public middle of next year.
* Seismic strengthening, big new addition.
* 75 per cent increase in exhibition capacity.
* 800 of the 14,620 art works to be displayed.
* New "named" galleries almost finished.
* Friedlanders, Gibbs, Robertsons honoured.

Sculpture to bridge old and new eras
By Anne Gibson
5:30 AM Wednesday Sep 22, 2010


Auckland Art Gallery's main atrium roof which is made from 11 kauri pods. Photo / Natalie Slade
A large work by Danish artist Jeppe Hein will fill Auckland Art Gallery's new sculpture terrace.

Gallery director Chris Saines said the work was for the new area built between Albert Park and the roof of the 1915-17 East Gallery.

Hein, who has exhibited at the Venice Biennale and Tate Liverpool, uses motors, mirrors and fountains in some of his sculptures and installations.

Saines cannot reveal the nature, name or look of the new work but he said the walkway was a significant addition to the gallery, connecting old buildings to new.

The terrace not only allows proximity to the park but gives visitors a close-up view of the Kitchener/Wellesley clock tower and the ornate roof of the original art gallery buildings, he said.

Saines said 17 floors in the old buildings would become just six in the new, making life easier for staff who have had to endure Dickensian facilities for years, including inadequate loading areas and a tiny goods lift.

"Moving art around will be much easier," he said.

The gallery's $121 million restoration and expansion, a collaboration by Richard Francis-Jones' FJMT (Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp) in Sydney and Auckland's Archimedia, will not open until the middle of next year.

Hand-crafted Kauri pods clad the roof of the new waterfront-end extension to the gallery.

Entire trees which had fallen in the North Island, particularly around the Coromandel, were cut into pieces on-site then air-lifted out by helicopter, Saines said.

A team of 30 cabinet makers at Papakura Joinery have worked on the pods for the past 18 months.

But Saines said designing and executing the curved structures was complicated and demanded close co-operation between Archimedia and the joinery factory. Saines said the pods were a work of art in their own right.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1411/5147312915_dd3e23b730_o.jpg

Can't wait for this one to open..it's going to look awesome!

Couple of quick snaps from this afternoon (excuse the weather)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/IMG_0659.jpg

The Kauri wooden ceiling work really is something amazing:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/IMG_0661-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/IMG_0660.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/IMG_0658.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/IMG_0657.jpg

^^
Can't wait for this to open - hopefully we can get some of the big exhibits that Te Papa gets all the time. Thanks for the updates (and with regards to the weather - at least the farmers are happy !) :)

The wood looks fantastic.

Trying again with the weather on my side this time... (from today)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/2011/IMG_0221.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/2011/IMG_0224.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/2011/IMG_0225.jpg

^^

http://www.messentools.com/images/emoticones/varios/www.MessenTools.com-Varios-big-131.gif Just perfect!

A few from the Park and Kitchener - it is really looking good - even better in person. It will be great when the gallery finally re-opens.


http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5246/5356520504_a7187a80be_o.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5049/5355905965_6c78559f01_o.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5243/5355907975_e488b76828_o.jpg

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http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5047/5355915267_e1b91d3f06_o.jpg

A few from the Park and Kitchener - it is really looking good - even better in person. It will be great when the gallery finally re-opens.



Can't be too long now! Nice work Mr KF you really get around. I always look forward to your photos.

^^

Thank you beazlebubbles :cheers:

Nice work Mr KF you really get around. I always look forward to your photos.

Likewise Mr Kiwifruit and Sydney, I agree with the general consensus, that you both add so much to these forums, consistently showcasing our wonderful city, I love viewing your photos, thank you.

I would also like to take this opportunity to apologise for behaving like a complete moron last year, especially to Sydney whom I offended without real cause. I know Auckland means a lot to you both as your adopted home. It is sometimes easier to take the frustrations of everyday life out on our cyber friends and I have been very guilty of that so I am sincerely sorry to all (Rob included).

Without you both these forums would be a different experience, best not to take you for granted, you both do a fantastic job.

In the heat of the moment I said I would not continue to post however SCC is addictive and very enjoyable so I would like to contribute from time to time, rather than reinvent myself...perhaps best to eat humble pie!

The gallery is looking great! It's also cool to see what appears to be a start on the street upgrade too.

Likewise Mr Kiwifruit and Sydney, I agree with the general consensus, that you both add so much to these forums, consistently showcasing our wonderful city, I love viewing your photos, thank you.


Totally agree with this!

especially to Sydney[/I] whom I offended without real cause. I know Auckland means a lot to you both as your adopted home. It is sometimes easier to take the frustrations of everyday life out on our cyber friends and I have been very guilty of that so I am sincerely sorry to all (Rob included).!

I honestly wouldn't feel sorry for whatever you said to Rob, he's clearly having fun attempting to wind people up with his polarising views, which may or may not be what he really believes but the fact that he's over on the CBT forums posting the same rubbish suggests he gets his kicks trying to waste people's time with ridiculous comments and pointless arguments.

Likewise Mr Kiwifruit and Sydney, I agree with the general consensus, that you both add so much to these forums, consistently showcasing our wonderful city, I love viewing your photos, thank you.

I would also like to take this opportunity to apologise for behaving like a complete moron last year, especially to Sydney whom I offended without real cause. I know Auckland means a lot to you both as your adopted home. It is sometimes easier to take the frustrations of everyday life out on our cyber friends and I have been very guilty of that so I am sincerely sorry to all (Rob included).

Without you both these forums would be a different experience, best not to take you for granted, you both do a fantastic job.

In the heat of the moment I said I would not continue to post however SCC is addictive and very enjoyable so I would like to contribute from time to time, rather than reinvent myself...perhaps best to eat humble pie!


Good on you Brojoro, apology accepted (though one was not needed) and thank you for those kind words. The internet does lend itself to lashing out when things go pear shaped which is simply the nature of the beast. Auckland is going through exciting times with the newly formed Supercity and light at the end of the GFC tunnel, so things are really looking up even though it seems to be a bit stagnant at this time.

P.S. Syd asked me to tell you that he never took it to heart and has no hard feelings. He also asked me to thank you all the same even though the apology is unnecessary :)

Good on you Brojoro, apology accepted (though one was not needed) and thank you for those kind words. The internet does lend itself to lashing out when things go pear shaped which is simply the nature of the beast. Auckland is going through exciting times with the newly formed Supercity and light at the end of the GFC tunnel, so things are really looking up even though it seems to be a bit stagnant at this time.

P.S. Syd asked me to tell you that he never took it to heart and has no hard feelings. He also asked me to thank you all the same even though the apology is unnecessary :)

Thanks Mr Kiwifruit and Sydney, I felt the apology was necessary as I see you guys around town all the time, often brushing past you in the street and now I feel I can stop and say hello!

I agree Auckland is going through exciting times...much to talk about!

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http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5014/5459607748_30dcdb7cc3_o.jpg

A few from the Park and Kitchener - it is really looking good - even better in person. It will be great when the gallery finally re-opens.


http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5246/5356520504_a7187a80be_o.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5049/5355905965_6c78559f01_o.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5243/5355907975_e488b76828_o.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5083/5355907829_a0f77710d1_o.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5241/5355915899_52e2fec5e7_o.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5047/5355915267_e1b91d3f06_o.jpg


i've never seen wood look so sexual lol

Boners aside

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3152/2466953333_71553b8c51_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wonderferret/2466953333/)
Auckland City Art gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wonderferret/2466953333/) by wonderferret (http://www.flickr.com/people/wonderferret/), on Flickr
(during the 1ZB 50's exhibition, Nov-Dec 1992 ish)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3104/2911915902_9d95e761a2_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wonderferret/2911915902/)
demolition (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wonderferret/2911915902/) by wonderferret (http://www.flickr.com/people/wonderferret/), on Flickr

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3219/2953463567_20ce1b0b59_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wonderferret/2953463567/)
3rd weekend in October (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wonderferret/2953463567/) by wonderferret (http://www.flickr.com/people/wonderferret/), on Flickr

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3324/3225138232_d58e620ab8_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wonderferret/3225138232/)
4th weekend jan 2009 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wonderferret/3225138232/) by wonderferret (http://www.flickr.com/people/wonderferret/), on Flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2473/3974738795_45d5ed78a2_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/3974738795/)
Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/3974738795/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5138/5459603900_854c0e2efa_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5459603900/)
IMG_5618 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5459603900/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

Bringing these videos forward to this page

TVeRzKNuWdI

ztB0BYUPqzA

^^ Thanks Mr Kiwi Fruit, such a transformation, another great project for Auckland, I forgot just how dated the old Gallery was. Can't wait to have a good look at the completed redevelopment!!

Travelled up to AKL for the Chinese Lantern Festival @ Albert Park last weekend and was so impressed with how this is taking shape!!! The kauri looked so beautiful from across the park. Speaking of 'taking shape'... we parked in a god-awful, hideous parking tower on Kitchener Street then walked (the long way around?) out onto Lorne Street, then up through Khartoum Place towards the park. Aside from the parking tower it was a very nice area to walk through - unrecognisable from the last time I was there.

we parked in a god-awful, hideous parking tower on Kitchener Street then walked

Wasn't this beauty was it?

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2429/3716588066_ac08a90163_z.jpg?zz=1

On a side note - number of people attending the lantern festival

2009 - 150 000
2010 - 200 000
2011 - 250 000

busy as.....

Saturday 12 March

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/_mQZRLHeO5cg/TXr4n4maJQI/AAAAAAAAB6Q/zc0ay2Z6OeY/Fort%20Street%20Art%20Gallery%20013.JPG

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/_mQZRLHeO5cg/TXr4Oxz4TyI/AAAAAAAAB6M/-6ioTZF4YPc/Fort%20Street%20Art%20Gallery%20017.JPG

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/_mQZRLHeO5cg/TXr5MohRn0I/AAAAAAAAB6U/SyFVh90jNHM/Fort%20Street%20Art%20Gallery%20011.JPG

^^Nice pics :cheers:

A couple from today also >>>

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/2011/IMG_0527.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/2011/IMG_0531.jpg

It's getting there >>> Due to open middle of the year

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/2011/IMG_0599.jpg

^^
I cannot wait.........................

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5308/5645151725_f33b460aef_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5645151725/)
Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5645151725/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5062/5645716388_ca207ac50f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5645716388/)
Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5645716388/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5266/5645156391_f5262d36af_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5645156391/)
Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5645156391/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5021/5645720126_dd79038e62_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5645720126/)
Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5645720126/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5308/5645157271_16f5650df2_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5645157271/)
Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5645157271/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5070/5645720760_96807d926a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5645720760/)
Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5645720760/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5184/5645158683_f0f35411af_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5645158683/)
Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5645158683/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

Some old photos.

http://www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/dbtw-wpd/heritageimages/images/f25f/2081.jpg

http://www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/dbtw-wpd/heritageimages/images/g14f/3955.jpg

http://www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/dbtw-wpd/heritageimages/images/g46f/5640.jpg

^^ The flags look really cool. A large New Zealand flag would look brilliant once it opens again.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/IMG_0983.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/IMG_0984.jpg

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http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v45/Flyin_higher/IMG_0994.jpg

^^ Great update, not far to completion now. All theses great developments will be coming to a conclusion August/September.

Yea looking forward to it...and we now have a date! The Art Gallery re-opens on September 3rd, exactly 3 months from today.

http://www.aucklandartgallery.com/whats-on/news/a-diary-date

Nice! Thanks for the information!

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/news/video.cfm?c_id=1501119&gal_cid=1501119&gallery_id=119236

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5193/5820604450_338c886baa_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5820604450/)
Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/5820604450/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

Almost done - it's looking great!

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6066/6057719909_bcc7b6989d_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6057719909/)

19 AUG 11 14°C AUCKLAND ART GALLERY UNDER CONSTRUCTION (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6057719909/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6190/6058265350_67a50d66d3_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6058265350/)

19 AUG 11 14°C AUCKLAND ART GALLERY UNDER CONSTRUCTION (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6058265350/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6072/6058265844_f4829eddbd_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6058265844/)

19 AUG 11 14°C AUCKLAND ART GALLERY UNDER CONSTRUCTION (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6058265844/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6068/6058266084_1a0b7ba147_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6058266084/)

19 AUG 11 14°C AUCKLAND ART GALLERY UNDER CONSTRUCTION (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6058266084/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6193/6058266510_04b49fd060_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6058266510/)

19 AUG 11 14°C AUCKLAND ART GALLERY UNDER CONSTRUCTION (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6058266510/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

I absolutely love the wood. It has turned out to be better than I could have anticipated - the previous photos (due to weather) just didn't do it justice. At least now I can say that it is absolutely stunning and I can't wait to see it in the flesh this weekend when I do a walk by!

I can't believe the old fuddy duddies were opposed to this. It looks fantastic. It complements the old gallery without imitating it.

http://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/SiteCollectionImages/Events/heritagefestival/fromfrenchchateau442.jpg

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki: From French Chateau To Kauri Canopy (http://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/EN/OurAuckland/Events/heritagefestival/Pages/events.aspx?title=Art%20Gallery:%20From%20French%20Chateau%20to%20Kauri%20Canopy&date=2011-09-17)
Date: 17 September - 2 October
Venue: Auckland Art Gallery, cnr Wellesley and Lorne Streets, Central Auckland
Cost: FREE

About the event
This exhibition tells the story of the Gallery's architecture from the 1883 design by John Grainger and Charles D'Ebro through to the recent development by FJMT and Archimedia. Featuring architectural plans, historic photographs, architects' sketches and working models, key moments in the building's life are explored. The exhibition tracks the dramatic metamorphoses of the Victorian-era East Gallery, and shows how the new kauri canopy was developed from concept to construction.

LOVE LOVE LOVE the new banners on Kitchener Street. Makes the area feel so trendy. :banana:

One of my Favorite buildings and I haven't even been in yet. One week to go!

--

The wait is finally over as the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki opens its doors on Saturday 3 September.
(http://www.aucklandartgallery.com/whats-on/events/2011/september/opening-weekend-festival)

Saturday 3 September: Official Civic ceremony 10am, doors open 11am
Sunday 4 September: 10am - 5pm

Everyone is welcome to join the official civic ceremony at 10am on the Kitchener Street forecourt of the Gallery. After the ceremony, which includes a speech from Mayor Len Brown, kapa haka display and a performance by the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, doors will open to the public at 11am.

Opening hours are extended to 10pm on opening day and the following Saturday. A special visitor programme for the first and second weekends of opening includes talks, presentations, readings, fashion, music and cultural performances.

The Gallery will have late night openings until 7pm every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday throughout September.


http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6181/6078116929_1c267b2662_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6078116929/)
Kitchener St (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6078116929/) by nilut (http://www.flickr.com/people/nilut/), on Flickr


Internationally renowned public sculptor Jeppe Hein was chosen to create an artwork for the east sculpture terrace. Long Modified Bench Auckland, which will be in place for three years, is the latest in a series of sculptures based on park benches and the way people react with their surroundings.

The bench travels along the terrace, performing a series of loops and acrobatic feats before dipping down to the gallery space below and reappearing, creating a stimulating and lively space - as well as a seated area for visitors.
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6075/6078115669_3227ef9645_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6078115669/)
Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6078115669/)
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IMG_1099 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6078657684/)

Flower Chandelier by Choi Jeong Hwa (http://www.aucklandartgallery.com/whats-on/news/commissions-launched-in-celebration) was specifically designed for the Gallery's north atrium. Colourful giant flowers suspended from metal rings inflate and deflate, while LED lights in and around the blooms illuminate the artwork at night.

http://www.aucklandartgallery.com/umbraco/imagegen.ashx?image=/media/2450125/flowerchandelier575.jpg&width=460

The artist's influence extends outside the Gallery walls, with another temporary installation, Red occupying the reflection pool in the forecourt.

"Choi's sculptures and installations merge sci-fi with the everyday, blend low culture with high, and mix what is serious with the seriously comic," says Senior Curator Ron Brownson.

Choi's art has adorned cities worldwide, from Bangkok, Copenhagen and Tokyo to Venice, Lyon and Sydney. The Auckland Art Gallery will host Flower Chandelier for one year.

The Gallery has also commissioned three Māori artists to create three permanent and enduring works in celebration of the building development. These will be revealed after a blessing ceremony on 1 September.

One is hidden on the pillars under those blue tarps - caught a glimpse of these and they are beautiful!

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6069/6078157951_2b5c252268_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6078157951/)
Auckland Art Gallery mezzanine (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6078157951/) by nilut (http://www.flickr.com/people/nilut/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6085/6078117331_cec62755e6_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6078117331/)
Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6078117331/)
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6066/6078665032_c25328c715_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6078665032/)
Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6078665032/)
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6062/6078127871_9e6f62bf7b_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6078127871/)
Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6078127871/)

Pretty slick.

Yea I'm looking forward to the opening, will def be attending to get a look at this fine new addition to our city

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6076/6087777315_3abd8ee222_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6087777315/)
Kitchener Street (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6087777315/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

Did anyone else see the new artwork/water feature that rests on the right hand side of the entrance? I am positively blown away :colgate:

Gallery was blessed at a dawn ceremony this morning. Welcoming spring with new forecourt artwork.

'Red' flower installation by Choi Jeong Hwa
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6192/6101092323_8dd925ee36_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6101092323/)
Auckland Art Gallery Art (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6101092323/) by nilut (http://www.flickr.com/people/nilut/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6209/6101653486_ed4379564a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6101653486/)
Auckland Art Gallery Art (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6101653486/) by nilut (http://www.flickr.com/people/nilut/), on Flickr

Arnold Wilson's Carved Columns

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6070/6101653866_7d77cd6074_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6101653866/)
Auckland Art Gallery Art (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6101653866/) by nilut (http://www.flickr.com/people/nilut/), on Flickr

Looking forward to attending on saturday

Fantastic updates, Nilut! Looks absolutely amazing and I only hope I can walk again before I leave so I can go down and experience it again.

Are they going to install seating on Kitchener Street?

Fantastic updates, Nilut! Looks absolutely amazing and I only hope I can walk again before I leave so I can go down and experience it again.

Why are you unable to walk?

Why are you unable to walk?

I was unfortunate enough to tear a ligament in my ankle whilst doing a jumping backhand smash in badminton two weeks ago - landed rolling my ankle. I've been hobbling around on crutches since then in rather a lot of pain, which is highly unfortunate as I've really wanted to do some tours of Auckland before I leave and take some photos for memories. :(

At least I have all the photos on SSC, but still, it's not quite the same as having your own.

Stunning pics Nilut - would you mind if I use the 2nd pic for Eye on Auckland ?

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6068/6102357590_d97dbceb65_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6102357590/)

01 SEP 11 16°C RWC (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6102357590/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6086/6102357996_b91a4730b8_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6102357996/)

01 SEP 11 16°C RWC (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6102357996/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6088/6102358290_16dea4f4e4_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6102358290/)

01 SEP 11 16°C RWC (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6102358290/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

Sydney and Nilut, can I use some of your photos for my Tumblr? :)

Sydney and Nilut, can I use some of your photos for my Tumblr? :)

For sure :)

Sydney and Nilut, can I use some of your photos for my Tumblr? :)

Stunning pics Nilut - would you mind if I use the 2nd pic for Eye on Auckland ?


Sure, no prob to both :)

I was unfortunate enough to tear a ligament in my ankle whilst doing a jumping backhand smash in badminton two weeks ago -

Sorry to hear that but Auckland is crutch friendly ;)

More pics from today, I am so in love with this building :) the connection between Albert Park and Kitchener Street is awesome :cheers:

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6205/6105271240_4555eb0842_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6105271240/)

02 SEP 11 14°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6105271240/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6082/6105271512_8b2f069138_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6105271512/)

02 SEP 11 14°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6105271512/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

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02 SEP 11 14°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6105272334/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6073/6104727439_f1b9d44361_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6104727439/)

02 SEP 11 14°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6104727439/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6182/6105273024_132cc0d126_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6105273024/)

02 SEP 11 14°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6105273024/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

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02 SEP 11 14°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6104727881/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

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02 SEP 11 14°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6104728161/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

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02 SEP 11 14°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6105273756/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

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02 SEP 11 14°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6105273940/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

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02 SEP 11 14°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6105274172/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

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02 SEP 11 14°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6105274416/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

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02 SEP 11 14°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6104729311/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6067/6104730007_45b41b2091_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6104730007/)

02 SEP 11 14°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6104730007/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

The landscaping around the Gallery is of a very high quality too. It just really adds to the building and area immensely.

This is one of my favourite areas to walk around now. Hopefully they install cool seating on Kitchener Street and do up Khartoum Place to a high standard.

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6193/6105808092_ea869eaef7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6105808092/)
Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6105808092/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6105809670/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6105267251/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6105267851/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6105268413/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6105811904/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6105269923/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6105270409/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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P1070543 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6105813806/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

Had a chance to get a first glimpse inside. Awesome spaces, great artwork!

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6083/6106176758_3b65e372ef_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6106176758/)
Auckland Art Gallery Launch (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6106176758/) by nilut (http://www.flickr.com/people/nilut/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery Launch (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6106176826/) by nilut (http://www.flickr.com/people/nilut/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery Launch (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6106176904/) by nilut (http://www.flickr.com/people/nilut/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery Launch (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6105632591/) by nilut (http://www.flickr.com/people/nilut/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery Launch (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6105632687/) by nilut (http://www.flickr.com/people/nilut/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery Launch (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6106177126/) by nilut (http://www.flickr.com/people/nilut/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery Launch (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6105632947/) by nilut (http://www.flickr.com/people/nilut/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery Launch (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6105633041/) by nilut (http://www.flickr.com/people/nilut/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery Launch (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6106177500/) by nilut (http://www.flickr.com/people/nilut/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery Launch (http://www.flickr.com/photos/nilut/6105633167/) by nilut (http://www.flickr.com/people/nilut/), on Flickr

WOW! Amazing is all I can say. It is like waking up in a new city :) I hope they have enough space for all the awards this building is going to win :banana:

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6085/6108385400_3c505f9683_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6108385400/)
Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6108385400/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6107863899/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6108411766/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6108412326/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6108413588/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6108414832/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6108415510/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6108415956/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6108416770/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6108418894/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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^^ Great photos Mr KF, one amazingly beautiful building, I hadn't noticed the detail in the carving in the kauri.

I went to the ceremony at 10.00am, quite an emotional event. I am so impressed with our Mayor Len Brown, he is actually a very funny and charismatic man, eccentric.

^^

Thanks Brojoro - Len brown has had a busy day - Art Gallery - the French welcome in Orakei and the All Blacks Welcome at Aotea this afternoon. He is rather eccentric and referred to himself as the 'crazy mayor' this afternoon at Aotea :)

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Len Brown (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6108532984/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

Great photos Mr Kiwi Fruit. Always enjoy your posts and photos. Keep it up!

I was at the Art gallery this afternoon, and it looked great.

Great photos!!! Looks like a different city looking down from it with the narrow paved street and fantastic building. Len is great too IMO, imagine if he still had that coring Banks in power...

Absolutely fantastic photos of the interior. Thank you for sharing everyone.

Wow. I land on Wednesday - this will be one of the first stops

perfect time to open an art gallery and show it off..! nice snaps..! thank god the weather from now on will be getting warmer!!

WOW!!! what a fantastic building and i totally love the angles and quality of the finish.

Stunning building, fantastic the way in connects to Albert Park! This will now become one of my regular haunts I think!

What impressed me most was the attention to the detail, something that has been sorely lacking in Auckland but it is changing across the city :cheers:

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03 SEP 11 15°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6108188077/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

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03 SEP 11 15°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6108725468/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

went there today to have a look, agree this place is amazing!

well done!

went there today to have a look, agree this place is amazing!

well done!

So did I. This is an amazing building. As good as you would see overseas.

agrees with everyone about everything.. it was amazing! Got in there last half an hour of the day.. i love the art piece that moves the two 'L'shaped prong things..outside! :O

agrees with everyone about everything.. it was amazing! Got in there last half an hour of the day.. i love the art piece that moves the two 'L'shaped prong things..outside! :O

That was there before although it seized up or broke so it was stuck in one position. It's good to see it back and moving.

Visited the newly opened Auckland Art Gallery which is fantastic :cheers:

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More to follow :cheers:

Everything looks mint..
Is the roof terrace just an empty hangout space for university stoners, or does the Cafe extend up there?

Stunning pics Nicco - well done :)

There is an espresso bar with outdoor seating on the roof terrace.

Nice photos Nilut, mr KF, Syd,Nicco and everyone!

i got some photos too, will post them up later :D

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This looks amazing - really world class and not too stuffy. It's always important to have great retail, and a good cafe/bar! Sydney City museum is a good example, but this is far cooler.

Will it be mainly installations or will there be a mix of permanent and temporary collections? Hopefully this gets some major travelling collections as it's certainly a worthy space. Congratulations.

^^

It is certainly a jewel in Auckland's crown. The gallery will be a mix of permanent and temporary installations and there are plans to bring major collections through its doors.

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6134940255/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6134937795/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6135482444/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6134932869/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6135478756/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6180/6135485514_e667e2df79_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6135485514/)
Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6135485514/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6189/6134929267_20716195b0_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6134929267/)
Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6134929267/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6153/6134934515_fe37b2f81f_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6134934515/)
Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6134934515/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6208/6134935711_300303b34f_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6134935711/)
Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6134935711/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6151/6135475990_fe8307d254_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6135475990/)
Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6135475990/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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AAG (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6312302499/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

^^Nice!

Art gallery goes global with Google

Auckland Art Gallery will open its doors to distant audiences as part of the Google Art Project. It is one of two Australasian galleries chosen for the virtual museum tours launched by Google earlier this year. The online project allows users to wander the likes of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, the Tate Britain or the Palace of Versailles. Seventeen museums and galleries from nine countries have contributed more than a thousand artworks to the online collection.

Regional Facilities Auckland says Auckland Art Gallery will add several hundred major New Zealand artworks to the virtual gallery when it joins the project in February next year. Google's street view technology allows users to take virtual gallery tours or artworks can be viewed individually. Art lovers can pick and chose their favourite pieces to make an online collection to share on social networking sites. Both Auckland Art Gallery and Google said they could not comment on the project. Sydney's Gallery of New South Wales is set to be the second Australasian gallery involved.

Degas to Dali

The first admission-charged exhibition since the gallery's re-opening in September will run from 3 March to c. 3 June 2012.

It comprises 79 works from the National Galleries of Scotland in Edinburgh.

For more go to www.aucklandartgallery.com.

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Art Gallery before (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6658015091/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/6648369131/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

It's a lovely building but I kind of miss the waterfall. I wish Auckland had more water features. Or more specifically, more high volume water features. With the loss of art gallery waterfall and the QEII geysers it only really leaves the Khartoum place waterfall to provide any real visceral water action and that is not in a prime location for enjoyment.

It was three years in the making and millions was spent on it, now the redeveloped Auckland Art Gallery can show itself off to the rest of the world. From today the gallery is part of the Google Art Project which allows users to virtually navigate their way through 151 museums and galleries worldwide. Joined by Wellington's Te Papa, 251 New Zealand-based artworks will be presented to the world through the website. Using Google's street view technology the online project allows users to wander the likes of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, the Tate Britain or the Palace of Versailles. Paintings or sculptures can be viewed individually with high resolution "gigapixel" images able to show brushwork not visible to the naked eye. Google's Kate Mason says it is "exciting" to bring the technology to New Zealand. "Auckland Art Gallery is contributing 85 artworks to the Google Art Project and Te Papa [is contributing] 166, so now the global artistic community can get a taste of New Zealand." Art lovers can pick and chose their favourite pieces to make an online collection to share on social networking sites. The Auckland Art Gallery was reopened in September last year after a $121 million redevelopment. Six Australian galleries have also joined the project today including the National Gallery of Australia, the Art Gallery of New South Wales, MCA Sydney, National Gallery of Victoria, the Melbourne Museum and the Rock Art Research Centre at Griffiths University.

Art-lovers flock to Auckland gallery

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6193/6108724164_68fd994213_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6108724164/)
03 SEP 11 15°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/6108724164/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

Almost 100,000 people experienced Auckland Art Gallery's recently closed Degas to Dali exhibition, highlighting the city's hunger for international art and cultural displays, the gallery's director says. The exhibition ended its 15-week season on Sunday, with 99,000 people visiting the display of modern masters, which was on-loan from the National Galleries of Scotland. More than 17,000 visitors saw the exhibition in its final two weeks alone. "It has been a long time since a major international exhibition of this calibre has travelled to Auckland, and we have been left in no doubt that our public want more," gallery director Chris Saines said. 'The incredibly positive response to Degas to Dalí clearly demonstrates that such shows have become far more viable for us in our new building."

Degas to Dalí presented major art movements of the mid-19th to mid-20th centuries through 79 works by 62 influential artists, such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Warhol. It was the first admission charged exhibition since the gallery re-opened in September 2011. Saines said visitors came from all around New Zealand, as well as overseas for the exhibition. It's success comes on the tail of the triumph of Jersey Boys, which broke ticket-sales records, with more than 100,000 people seeing the production. Around 35 per cent of tickets sold for Jersey Boys were to people outside of the Auckland region. Jennah Wootten, spokeswoman for Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development, said the economic impact of events like these plays a key role in achieving the long-term goals for the city. "These shows attract a wonderful cross section of young and old from around New Zealand and the city to enjoy a world-class experience in Auckland."

Does this indicate the need for a second gallery? I know there has been talk of a branch of Te Papa being set up in Auckland. Which is a great idea.

What about a Museum of Contemporary Art? It could be waterfront like in Sydney, down at the Wynyard Quarter. Maybe in conjunction with the proposed theatre - could really add to the mix of visitors to that area.

^^
My girlfriend and I went to the Degas to Dali exhibition at the Art Gallery.
I hadn't been to the Gallery since the recent make-over.
A FANTASTIC facility, worthy of exhibiting artists like Van Gogh, Monet and co.
It was amazing to stand just a meter away from some of these masterpieces.
Well worth the $20 :)

We tried to visit the Dali/Degas exhibition but the queue was ridiculously long. Good thing for Auckland, but sucked for us.

:lol:

UK architecture award for rebuilt art gallery

Auckland Art Gallery has won an international award never before given to a New Zealand building. The gallery was awarded the International Award for Architectural Excellence from The Royal Institute of British Architects. Twelve buildings a year are given the honour, which distinguishes the world's most imaginative, dramatic and eco-friendly buildings. It is one of several awards the Auckland Art Gallery has won this year. Director Chris Saines said that the aim was to develop a world-class gallery. "This heritage-restored and expanded building has become a flag-bearer for the city's architectural and urban design future."

Mr Saines said the number of awards "speaks volumes" about the quality of the design team but also acknowledges all the people involved. Architecture firms Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp and Archimedia designed the upgrade in 2008 and the building was finished late last year. Since then the gallery has housed successful exhibitions such as Degas to Dali, which has attracted 99,000 visitors. Auckland Art Gallery will open Home AKL on July 7, an exhibition about the work of contemporary Pacific artists, most of whom live in Auckland. Mayor Len Brown praised the gallery on the success of the remodel. Auckland Art Gallery has been in the city since 1888 and houses a collection of more than 15,000 works.

It's so good that an example of quality architecture and urban design is being recognised in Auckland. Nice work Auckland Council!

It's so good that an example of quality architecture and urban design is being recognised in Auckland. Nice work Auckland Council!

Agreed. Congrats! The art gallery is a real gem and I loved the fact that I saw it before I left.

Auckland Art Gallery's new exhibition Home AKL (http://www.nzherald.co.nz/entertainment/news/article.cfm?c_id=1501119&objectid=10819357) celebrates the energy, range and relevance of Pacific Island artists in Auckland.

Winning art gallery rated a flop for movies
The Auckland Art Gallery's $121 million revamp won New Zealand's top award for architecture, but a Hamilton film buff says its design is not audience-friendly. Warren Brown says the auditorium in the basement, which is hired out for film showings should have a sloping floor, as is standard in cinemas. He went to the auditorium last weekend to see Cuban and Russian documentaries screening as part of the International Film Festival. "It could have been a fascinating film," he said yesterday. "But the Australian architects who turned the basement into an auditorium put almost no slope on the floor. "As a result, only those in the front row could read the English subtitles at the bottom of the screen "The rest of us were forced to peer between the heads of other audience members in the vain hope of working out what was happening on screen. "At least a dozen people in the nearly full theatre rushed to the front row within the first five minutes to get a better view of the screen. "I wish the architects could have been there to experience the misery that they inflicted on members of the public."

A festival spokeswoman said audiences for future screenings could be assured of seeing subtitles because adjustments had been made by the projectionist to lift the screen image so subtitles were above the heads of people in the front row. Gallery director Chris Saines said the auditorium work extended its length, improved its rake to the maximum extent possible, and added more seating, within constraints imposed by the original building. "While it is a general purpose auditorium and not a purpose-built cinema or theatre, it nonetheless has all the technical capacity required for screening films and video of different kinds, particularly documentaries, and we have done so with great success on many occasions."

^^
If this statement is true, the aussie architects have made ​​a big and embarassing error :ohno:

Have seen subtitled docos there myself without problems. Like it says, projection just needs a little tweak. The architects did a great job considering the constraints so hardly something to be embarrassed about.

^^
If this statement is true, the aussie architects have made ​​a big and embarassing error :ohno:

Certainly I not judge the work they have done ... I think is good, I especially like the composition of the new facade and the installation of sculpture of flower arts in the interior e the space dedicated to the sculpture outside, from what I could see from the photos :) ... what I meant was simply: that after a great work... the slope of the floor was bad, isn't like a very movie theater ... but all in all, I repeat again, the work can be considered good :cheers:

Yes, it's all good, was referring more to the person in the article. :)
They had a bad experience which is regrettable but it's hardly as bad as they described. Sure it's not a prefect movie theatre but it was never meant to be just that.

Yes, it's all good, was referring more to the person in the article. :)
They had a bad experience which is regrettable but it's hardly as bad as they described. Sure it's not a prefect movie theatre but it was never meant to be just that.

Indeed, and putting in a sloping floor basically restricts it to only being used to screen movies, with special seating required.

Over half a million visit art gallery

More than 677,000 visitors have walked through the doors of Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki since it opened its doors in September last year. In its first year, the gallery drew in 326,804 first-time visitors, while its new hands-on Learning Centre has been visited by more than 126,000 creative art lovers. Aucklanders have been quick to adopt the gallery as a cultural outing, with around 73 per cent of visitors coming from the region. The renowned Degas to Dali exhibition earlier this year drew in more than 99,000 visitors alone. "We have had an amazing public and critical response and been hugely encouraged by the feedback," said Chris Saines, gallery director. "Aucklanders have made visiting the Gallery a regular part of their lives, exploring the frequently changing landscape of 32 exhibitions and collection displays presented since re-opening." Since reopening, the gallery has notched up 12 awards, including Project Achievement Award for Museum or Gallery development, a New Zealand Architecture Medal, the Rider Levett Bucknall Supreme Award from the Property Council of New Zealand, and the 2012 International Award from the Royal Institute of British Architect. Saines was also awarded the Queen's Birthday and Diamond Jubilee Honour of Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his service to the arts.

Who Shot Rock & Roll (http://www.biglittlecity.co.nz/Events/who-shot-rock-roll)

http://www.biglittlecity.co.nz/sites/default/files/imagecache/article_image/Who%20Shot%20Rock%20and%20Roll.jpg

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki will present the popular photographic exhibition, Who Shot Rock & Roll: A Photographic History, 1955 – Present. Direct from its United States tour, Who Shot Rock & Roll opens at Auckland Art Gallery on 10 November 2012. Who Shot Rock & Roll travels to New Zealand with 173 works from more than 100 photographers and many rare and never-before-exhibited images. Photographers include Diane Arbus, Roberta Bayley, Henry Diltz, Godlis, Dennis Hopper, David LaChappelle, Annie Leibovitz, Linda McCartney and Albert Watson. Organised by the Brooklyn Museum and curated by photographic historian and author Gail Buckland, Who Shot Rock & Roll is the first museum exhibition to acknowledge photographers for their collaborative and creative role in the history of popular music .... MORE (http://www.biglittlecity.co.nz/Events/who-shot-rock-roll)

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8056085308/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8056101726/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8056108536/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

Before

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8056190516/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

After

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Auckland Art Gallery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8056177828/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

Before

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Albert Park (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8056190792/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

After

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Albert Park (http://www.flickr.com/photos/craigsyd/8056180480/) by craigsydnz (http://www.flickr.com/people/craigsyd/), on Flickr

Much better and those NIMBYs who complained about the loss of a tiny area of a dark and neglected corner of Albert Park must feel like idiots now.

Much better and those NIMBYs who complained about the loss of a tiny area of a dark and neglected corner of Albert Park must feel like idiots now.

Isn't that always the story - over and over and over again ? It has happened to so many developments and once it's a huge success all the doomsayers pretend to feign innocence :lol:

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8486/8169747730_4d0faacd29_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/8169747730/)
09 NOV 12 19°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/8169747730/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

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09 NOV 12 19°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/8169719417/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

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09 NOV 12 19°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/8169748260/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

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09 NOV 12 19°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/8169741737/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

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09 NOV 12 19°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/8169742045/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

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09 NOV 12 19°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/8169742465/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

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09 NOV 12 19°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/8169771644/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

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09 NOV 12 19°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/8169743013/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

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09 NOV 12 19°C (http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyeonauckland/8169744049/) by Urban+Explorer (http://www.flickr.com/people/eyeonauckland/), on Flickr

Auckland Art Gallery 125th Anniversary Celebrations (http://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/EN/newseventsculture/events/Events/Pages/artgalleryanniversary.aspx)

Angels and Aristocrats (http://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/EN/newseventsculture/events/Events/Pages/angelsandaristocratsearlyeuropeanartinnewzealandpublicc0ollections.aspx)

http://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/SiteCollectionImages/Events/Feature/angelsandaristocrats442.jpg

"Angels & Aristocrats is an exciting culmination of a very long project celebrating the rich variety of early European art collected by New Zealand's public art galleries since the 19th century. Initially, these collections were made through the generosity of private individuals who were eager that the nation's emerging museums should reflect the great institutions of Britain and Europe," says Kisler. Also included will be a recent Auckland Art Gallery acquisition never before exhibited in New Zealand: the 17th century portrait of Margaret Hughes, the first professional stage-actress in England and mistress of Prince Rupert of the Rhine, cousin to King Charles II ... MORE (http://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/EN/newseventsculture/events/Events/Pages/angelsandaristocratsearlyeuropeanartinnewzealandpublicc0ollections.aspx)