Artist impression: Secchi Smith
The Hans Heysen Foundation has released stunning designs for the new Heysen Art Gallery in the Adelaide Hills.
The Chair of the Heysen Foundation, James Sexton, said the gallery was an inspiring tribute to one of Australia’s most revered and loved artists.
“This will become a must-visit destination for art lovers right across the globe,” he said.
“To house Heysen’s works in a stunning earthy structure nestled amongst the beautiful rolling Adelaide Hills is such a fitting tribute to this incredible South Australian. I have no doubt this will become Australia’s equivalent of Monet’s garden right here in Hahndorf.”
This is the first look at what will become a world-class destination recognising Heysen’s incredible contribution to Australia’s arts and cultural heritage.
The gallery located at The Cedars, the Hahndorf home of Hans Heysen and his daughter Nora Heysen, will comprise a purpose-built gallery, restaurant and gift shop, as well as bushfire-safe storage for art works.
The inspired design by the Adelaide-based studio of international architecture and design firm, Snøhetta has a strong focus on sustainability and an acute awareness of its location.
Chief Executive Officer at The Cedars, Ms Tori Dixon-Whittle said: “The new gallery will create an immersive experience of Heysen’s internationally-renowned artworks amongst the very environment that inspired him.”
The Australian Government is providing $9 million for the construction of the project under the Adelaide City Deal.
Snøhetta Australasia project team, led by Adelaide architect Heather Griffin, sought to create a design that is both protective of the landscape and protected by the landscape in revealing the unique qualities and evocative experiences of Heysen’s works.
It incorporates rammed earth concrete materials, expansive glazing to bring in scenic vistas, strong timber-themed interior furnishings as well as energy saving design features. Building works are expected to commence later this year.
Snøhetta has a reputation for extraordinary buildings, having designed the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet building, Europe’s first underwater restaurant Under, the National September 11 Memorial Museum, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art Expansion, and the Pridham Hall for
the University of South Australia.
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