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Henry Moore Institute to open following major refurbishment
Sculpture gallery will take part in MA Conference 2024 programme of tours
The Henry Moore Institute in Leeds reopens to visitors tomorrow following its first major refurbishment in its 30-year history.
The purpose-built sculpture gallery closed its doors in November 2023 in order for work to take place on its Grade II listed building, which was designed in the early 1990s by Dixon Jones.
As well as a new roof complete with solar panels, the gallery now has a learning and engagement space where it is able to host workshops, discussions and events.
The renovations, designed by Leeds-based Group Ginger architects, have focused on created more inviting spaces with more seating available in the foyer and a new “alcove” area where visitors can take part in free creative drop-in activities.
The institute’s research library now includes a display area for its special collections and a seminar room for events.
“We are delighted to have made significant changes to our building so that our audiences can continue to grow, access and enjoy our exhibitions, research programmes and our collections,” said Laurence Sillars, the head of the Henry Moore Institute.
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“These alterations will bring a significant step-change to how, and where, our programmes are experienced, retaining our world-renowned research facilities while ensuring that young people – our potential great creative thinkers of the future – feel welcome.”
Visitors will be able to see the first solo exhibition in a European institution by Hany Armanious one of Australia’s leading sculptors, alongside a display bringing together the work of contemporary artist Hew Locke and 19th century sculptor Mary Thornycroft. In autumn, it hosts a group exhibition will mark a centenary of surrealism, The Traumatic Surreal.
Delegates at the Museums Association Conference 2024: The Joy of Museums at the Royal Armouries in Leeds will be able to hear more about the renovation as part of a programme of tours taking place on Thursday 14 November. They will also be able to explore its Research Library and Archive of Sculptors’ Papers.
Other tour venues include Leeds Art Gallery, the Peace Museum in Saltaire, Impressions Gallery in Bradford and the Thackray Museum of Medicine.
There are also walking tours taking in Hibiscus Rising, a sculpture by the British-Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare, Saltaire World Heritage Site, and public art on the Leeds University campus