Premier announces architectural team for TMAG renewal

08/10/2009

Premier David Bartlett today announced the appointment of leading Australian architectural design team Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp (FJMT), for the next stage of the transformation of the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG). "The TMAG redevelopment is a once in a lifetime opportunity that will enrich the lives of all Tasmanians and visitors to our island," Mr Bartlett said. "The government's initial $30 million commitment will allow Francis- Jones Morehen Thorp to turn the TMAG Masterplan into an architectural reality and manage construction of the first stage. "What we are about here is creating a museum that is true to the heritage of this site, and yet modern in its connection with the City and the waterfront. "The Hobart waterfront is Tasmania's meeting place - and the new TMAG will be right at the heart of that." Mr Bartlett said the design team, led by multi-award-winning architect Richard Francis-Jones, secured the project following a thorough open tender process. "FJMT is behind the architecture of some of Australia's most recognised cultural landmarks," Mr Bartlett said "FJMT's impressive architectural portfolio includes its multi-award winning work on the Mint in Sydney for the Historic Houses Trust, current work on the Auckland Art Gallery in New Zealand and a commission for a new Chemistry Research Laboratory at Oxford University as a result of an invitation-only competition. "FJMT is also leading the $100 million redevelopment of Hobart's Parliament Square. "The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery is the place where we press our face to the window of history and marvel at the events and people that we see. "That's why we are so determined that this redevelopment will be world-class." Mr Bartlett said the renewal of TMAG, through the government's continued investment in cultural infrastructure, would achieve: • a new public entry off Dunn Place, • a contemporary architectural design that is both cutting edge and yet sympathetic to the heritage of the site. This will include the possible creation of a covered courtyard containing new programs, • increased exhibition space including the opening of new galleries in major heritage buildings, • a new foyer containing 21st century facilities, • improved access and interpretation, • new jobs and ongoing economic return to the state • visionary new architecture and exhibitions while retaining the special place TMAG has in the hearts of Tasmanians. Mr Bartlett said the public would be introduced to the visual design of the new Museum in early 2010 and that construction of the first stage of the project is expected to be completed in the 2012-13 financial year. The new TMAG in its entirety will be the single largest and most significant cultural development ever undertaken in Tasmania.