Set against the serene backdrop of the River Calder in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, The Hepworth Wakefield is a contemporary art museum that has quickly established itself as a cultural beacon since its opening in May 2011. Named after the renowned artist and sculptor Barbara Hepworth, who was born and raised in the city, this gallery is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
The Hepworth Wakefield is an architectural marvel designed by the acclaimed British architect David Chipperfield. Composed of ten trapezoidal blocks, the building's unique and striking design is both modern and minimalist. The façade, clad in self-compacting pigmented concrete, gives the gallery a sculptural appearance that echoes the works of Barbara Hepworth herself. The choice of material and the building’s geometric form have sparked conversations and debates, making it a landmark that is as controversial as it is captivating.
Inside, the gallery boasts 1,600 square meters of purpose-built exhibition space. The upper-level galleries are bathed in natural light, thanks to the large windows in the pitched roofs, providing an ideal setting for the artworks on display. The windows also offer stunning views of the river, the historic waterfront, and the city skyline, creating a harmonious blend of art and nature.
The Hepworth Wakefield houses an impressive collection of artworks spanning from the 16th century to the present day. The gallery is home to 44 plaster and aluminum working models donated by Barbara Hepworth's family, offering a unique insight into the creative process of one of the 20th century’s most significant sculptors. The collection also includes works by other prominent artists such as Henry Moore, Ben Nicholson, Graham Sutherland, and Paul Nash.
In addition to its permanent collection, the gallery hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary art, ensuring that there is always something new and exciting to see. The Hepworth Wakefield is also a partner of Plus Tate, a project aimed at increasing public access to the national collection of British and international modern and contemporary art.
In 2016, the gallery received a significant boost to its collection with the Tim Sayer Bequest. Tim Sayer, a former BBC news writer and avid art collector, donated over 400 works of art to The Hepworth Wakefield. This generous bequest includes pieces by renowned artists such as David Hockney, Gerhard Richter, Alexander Calder, and Bridget Riley. The Tim Sayer Bequest has been hailed as one of the most generous donations of its kind and has significantly enriched the gallery’s offerings.
The Hepworth Wakefield is designed to provide a memorable experience for all visitors. The ground floor features a café bar overlooking the river, where you can relax and enjoy a coffee or a light meal while taking in the picturesque views. The gallery also has a learning studio, a 100-seat auditorium, and a shop where you can purchase unique gifts and souvenirs.
The gallery’s educational programs are designed to engage visitors of all ages. From art workshops and family-friendly activities to talks and tours, there is always something happening at The Hepworth Wakefield. The gallery’s commitment to education and community engagement makes it a vital cultural hub in the region.
Since its opening, The Hepworth Wakefield has received numerous accolades and awards. In 2012, just a year after opening, the gallery was named Regional Building of the Year by the Royal Institute of British Architects. The gallery was also shortlisted for the Art Fund Prize in the same year. In July 2017, The Hepworth Wakefield was named the United Kingdom’s Museum of the Year, a testament to its impact and success in the cultural landscape.
In October 2015, as part of the celebrations marking its 5th anniversary, The Hepworth Wakefield launched the Hepworth Prize for Sculpture. This biennial £30,000 prize is awarded to a British or UK-based artist of any age and nationality who has made a significant contribution to contemporary sculpture. The prize aims to support and promote the best of contemporary sculpture and has quickly become one of the most prestigious awards in the art world.
In conclusion, The Hepworth Wakefield is more than just an art gallery; it is a celebration of creativity, innovation, and community. Whether you are an art aficionado or a casual visitor, a trip to The Hepworth Wakefield promises to be an enriching and inspiring experience. So, next time you find yourself in Wakefield, make sure to step into this modern-day temple of art and immerse yourself in the world of Barbara Hepworth and her contemporaries.
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