Newport Street Gallery is a contemporary art space located in the Vauxhall area of London. Opened in October 2015, the gallery was created by Damien Hirst, one of Britain's most renowned contemporary artists. The gallery was designed to house Hirst's personal art collection, offering the public a chance to see significant works that Hirst has accumulated over the years. The architecture itself is noteworthy, as it involves the transformation of a series of Victorian industrial buildings into a sleek modern gallery space.
The gallery spans 37,000 square feet, showcasing exhibitions that vary from solo artists to thematic group shows, often highlighting major figures from the art world. It offers an eclectic experience and frequently rotates its exhibitions, making each visit a potentially new encounter with art.
In addition to its art exhibitions, Newport Street Gallery is known for its unique architectural design, which was awarded the prestigious RIBA Stirling Prize in 2016. This accolade highlights the successful blend of old and new, with the gallery seamlessly integrating original structures with contemporary extensions, providing a visually striking environment for its art shows.
One of the interesting points about the Newport Street Gallery is its commitment to free admission. This policy makes art accessible to everyone, encouraging broader audiences to engage with contemporary art. It's a distinctive approach in a city where many private galleries charge entry fees.
The gallery is also home to Pharmacy 2, a restaurant that combines art and dining. Positioned within the gallery itself, the restaurant features pharmacy-themed art by Damien Hirst, offering a unique backdrop for enjoying a meal surrounded by art.
Making the Most of Your Visit:
If you're visiting Newport Street Gallery, try to time your visit for a weekday during opening hours to have a more intimate experience with the art. Weekends can be busier, and it may be harder to fully appreciate the space and exhibits in a crowd.
Start your tour by admiring the building's architecture. The blend of Victorian and contemporary design is part of the experience. Take a moment to appreciate the clever merging of old and new before diving into the exhibits.
Don't rush through the exhibits. Since the exhibitions change regularly, each visit is unique. Take your time to explore each piece and the story behind it. The presentations can be quite engaging, so allow yourself to be absorbed in their narratives.
Check out Pharmacy 2, even if you're not planning to eat there. The Damien Hirst art installations make it a visual treat, and you can often catch a glimpse of the artwork just by entering the restaurant area.
Bring a camera, but remember to switch off the flash. The gallery often houses visually stunning pieces, and capturing them as memories can be a great way to extend the experience. Just make sure to follow any photography guidelines in place.
Visiting Times & Costs:
Newport Street Gallery in Vauxhall is open to the public and generally does not charge an admission fee, allowing free access to its exhibitions.
Opening hours for the gallery are typically Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's advisable to check before visiting as there might be occasional changes or closures due to installation periods or private events.
Regarding accessibility, Newport Street Gallery is committed to ensuring access for all visitors. The gallery building is wheelchair accessible, including elevators and step-free routes. Assistance dogs are welcome, and the venue offers an accessible experience to the best extent possible, though it is always a good idea to contact them directly for any specific accessibility concerns or assistance required.
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