Gala event to mark gallery reopening

Published on 03 May 2022

The newly named and refurbished Broken Hill City Art Gallery is set to make its long-awaited reopening on Friday, May 27.

Around $1.7 million worth of repairs and upgrades have been carried out over the last 10 months including a complete replacement of the floor and roof, replastering, general repairs, and the installation of internal false walls to protect the original Sully's Building from damage.

The building also features new air conditioning, a humidifier to maintain ideal conditions to protect artwork, and security upgrades including CCTV.

Council's General Manager, Jay Nankivell, said he was relieved to have to the gallery up and running again.

"This project was by far our hardest hit by COVID-19, and was pretty frustrating for staff and contractors alike," said Mr Nankivell.

"Due to the delicate nature of working with fine art we had specialised interstate contractors who were constantly hampered by border closures and other travel restrictions.

"At one stage we even had an entire electrical team contract COVID-19. It's been trying, and I want to thank all staff and contractors for their persistence."

Mr Nankivell said the important upgrades would increase the security and longevity of both the city's art collection and the historic Sully's Building itself.

"The renovations probably aren't transformational from a visual point of view, but they were vitally important for the ongoing operation of the gallery and included completely replacing the roof and floors due to storm damage," he said.

"Along with the other upgrades it will enable the Gallery to operate safely and securely, and ensure our valuable art collection is preserved for generations to come."

A public launch event will be held at the gallery at 6pm on May 27, and will feature an exhibition of artworks specially selected from the local collection.

Light snacks will be provided and bar facilities will be available.

Please visit https://www.bhartgallery.com.au/Home to RSVP for the reopening and to see more information.