The transformation of the former Collingwood Technical School site into a contemporary arts precinct is another step closer with the announcement that the Victorian Government has provided $4 million to kick-start the project.
Minister for the Arts Heidi Victoria said the site, which also houses the new Circus Oz facility and the heritage-listed Keith Haring mural, will provide a home for multiple Victorian arts organisations as well as public spaces for exhibitions and events, small creative enterprises and hospitality venues.
“Melbourne is renowned as a home for the arts and this project will provide secure space for a range of arts organisations, revitalise derelict buildings and return this site to the centre of community life,” Ms Victoria said.
Ms Victoria announced that the project will be delivered under a ground-breaking new model based on successful international models such as Artscape in Toronto. This will see the site developed and managed by a new independent charitable organisation – known as ‘Contemporary Arts Precincts Ltd’.
Ms Victoria said that the Victorian Government’s contribution, which will support building upgrades, represents half of the funding required to bring the project to fruition.
“The Government is proud to have kickstarted this project, and now, through Contemporary Arts Precincts, we look forward to the philanthropic sector joining us to realise this vision,” Ms Victoria said.
“The site has an incredible history as a hub for creative endeavour, for collaboration, and for the community. This exciting project will not only breathe new life into the buildings, it will create a bustling precinct that will give back to artists, audiences and the community for generations to come.”
For more information, visit: www.arts.vic.gov.au for details.
Image: Keith Haring Mural (detail) which is located at the former Collingwood Technical School