Creative transformation for Collingwood Technical School site

Contemporary Arts PrecinctsThe disused Collingwood Technical School site is set to become a contemporary arts precinct, with support from the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley has announced $3 million, as part of the Labor Government’s Creative State strategy, alongside $4.5 million in donations and $4 million previously contributed by the State.

“Activating creative hubs at the heart of communities around Victoria is a key action of our $115 million strategy to make Victoria the Creative State, and this is a great example of how it can be done,” said Minister for Creative Industries, Martin Foley“I acknowledge the generous support and shared vision of our philanthropic partners, with their support Contemporary Arts Precincts (CAP) is creating an exciting space for others to follow.”

The announcement heralds the next stage of the creative transformation of the former Collingwood Technical School in Johnston Street. The long abandoned school was given a new lease on life in 2010 when it was earmarked for a new home for Circus Oz. In 2014, Circus Oz moved into its state-of-the-art new facility occupying 60% of the 10,000sqm site.

In partnership, the Labor Government is working with CAP to redevelop the three triple storey buildings, and spaces including a large leafy courtyard. This will provide a new creative hub and co-working spaces for small-to-medium arts organisations, artists, creative businesses and activities.

In addition to the Labor Government contribution, CAP has received donations from the Danielle and Daniel Besen Foundation, The Myer Foundation and the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation, The Ian Potter Foundation, Marc and Eva Besen and the Harold Mitchell Foundation.

“This project will be creating an extraordinary new cultural asset in the heart of Collingwood, offering secure, affordable tenancies and innovative programs to incubate, support and showcase artists,” said CAP CEO, Marcus Westbury. “We thank our generous donors and the State Government for their support and recognition of the role creativity plays in our culture, our city and our lives.”

The contemporary arts precinct is set to be operational by the end of 2018. In the meantime, an Expression of Interest has recently opened for potential tenants to be housed at the site. For more information, visit: www.contemporaryartsprecincts.org for details.

Image: courtesy of Contemporary Arts Precincts Ltd