Gallery extension awarded architectural 'oscar'

Released: 29 May 2008

Wolverhampton Art Gallery’s multi-million pound extension has scooped a prestigious 2008 RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) Award.

The stunning triangular extension, which has provided two new gallery spaces and additional visitor facilities, has been recognised for its architectural design and contribution to the local environment.

Wolverhampton Art Gallery was one of seven buildings in the West Midlands to win one of the coveted regional awards and will receive a certificate to display in the building.

The award means Wolverhampton Art Gallery is now eligible for a RIBA National Award in the country's top competition for architects.

Corinne Miller, the head of Wolverhampton City Council’s arts and  museums service, said: “We are delighted that our wonderful extension has been recognised by RIBA.

“Official recognition from professional architects adds to public appreciation of the new spaces recorded in the many lovely comments visitors have left.

“The building has allowed us to stage high profile exhibitions which have already attracted record numbers of visitors and we are expecting to build on this with an exciting programme of events throughout 2008.

“This includes the first ever Open West Midlands this summer, with the best work from artists working in the region, and our dedicated Pop Art gallery showing off one of our most important collections, which continues to attract young visitors and original ‘sixties swingers’.”

The £6.7million extension was designed by Purcell Miller Tritton and funded by Heritage Lottery Fund, Advantage West Midlands and Wolverhampton City Council.

Issued by the press office.