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18 November 2002 |
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First Public Preview Of Gallery Six months out from the official opening, Canterbury people are getting a rare opportunity to go behind the glass façade to tour their new Gallery. The new Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna O Waiwhetu will be “opening its doors” on Sunday 1st December, giving the public a chance to preview one of the city’s most ambitious community projects. The $47.5 million, three level complex will be officially opened in May 2003, just under two and a half years since the first turf was turned in December 2000. The ‘Sneak Preview’ has been organised by the Community Gifts Fundraising Committee in conjunction with the Christchurch North Lions Club. Entry will be by gold coin donation with proceeds going towards the Gallery project. To date, more than $14.5 million has been raised as part of the public fundraising campaign. “This is a very exciting time and the culmination of the efforts of many dedicated people, ”says Chair of the Community Gifts Fundraising Committee Hilary Langer. “We are welcoming the whole community to this unique event – to allow everyone to see how their extraordinary fundraising efforts have paid off.” “With just six months until completion, the new Art Gallery has really taken shape. The tour will give people a good indication of the enormity of the project and what the final outcome will be,” she added. The Gallery preview will take place on Sunday 1 December from 11am – 5pm. Members of the public will be able to tour two levels of the Gallery, following a set route. The self-guided tours will start at the main entrance on Worcester Boulevard and conclude at the Gloucester Street dock entrance. Christchurch North Lions Club President, Allan Lloyd, said the event further cements the Club’s long association with the development of community projects in the city. ‘”Our Club has been involved in Christchurch projects for many years, including providing support for the opening of the Town Hall in 1972,” said Mr Lloyd. “The new Art Gallery is an excellent community project and one which we are proud to support,” he added. The Christchurch Art Gallery Preview will run from 11am – 5pm Sunday 1 December from the Main Entrance on Worcester Boulevard. All media are welcome to attend. Due to the nature of the site, there will be no disabled or pram access to the second floor of the Gallery. The public are advised to wear practical clothing and footwear. The Gallery’s underground car park will not be operational. For more information: Jo Scully or Gerard Blank Glass Tower Strategic Communications Glass Tower Strategic Communications 03 365 1445 or 0274 303 050 |