Architects sought for design of regional Victorian gallery

The Southern Grampians Shire Council has issued a tender inviting Australian and international architects to design the New Hamilton Gallery in Hamilton, regional Victoria.

The project has been advocated for by community groups for more than a decade. In July 2024, the council endorsed the proposal to build the New Hamilton Gallery on the site of the current Hamilton Gallery, which houses a collection of more than 9,000 artworks.

The existing gallery, built in 1961, is no longer fit for purpose due to insufficient display space for exhibitions; storage limitations; climate control issues, and limited space for community activities.

The council partnered with the University of Melbourne, Melbourne School of Design academics, deputy dean Professor Alan Pert, and associate professor Rory Hyde, to consult with the community and develop the tender brief.

"We see this project as an opportunity for Hamilton to be a national leader in regional art galleries. To create something which is truly exciting, inclusive and ambitious," said Rory Hyde.

The tender invites architects to respond to local identity, civic life, creative pathways, the collection, the natural environment and First Nations culture and connections with the region.

Gallery director Joshua White said the original gallery was built and opened due to the community's efforts. "The new gallery project is no different and has had remarkable support during its decade long journey. […] Now our nationally significant collection, which has been donated and gifted by the public, will have a building to match."

The council has allocated funding in their recent budget for the gallery design.

The tender portal will close on Monday 19 August 2024. To find out more about the tender, visit the Hamilton Gallery website.