$500K FOR PUBLIC ART PIECE AT GPAC

A LOCAL, national or international artist will be commissioned to complete a $500,000 public art installation at the revamped Geelong Performing Arts Centre.

Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley said expressions of interests for artists keen to complete the large art installation at the centre’s eastern exterior wall opened today.

Between $300,000 and $500,000 of funding has been allocated for the installation, which it’s hoped will become a major drawcard for visitors.

The announcement is another coup for the 36-year-old centre that will be transformed into a major cultural hub with more rehearsal and community spaces.

Kane Constructions, the firm responsible for the 2010 refurbishment of GPAC’s Playhouse Theatre, has been awarded the $38.5 million contract.

The company has completed a number of Geelong projects including the redevelop- ment of Simonds Stadium and the Geelong Library and Heritage Centre.

Mr Foley said work was expected to start in September.

“The Geelong Performing Arts Centre services a large and growing population, attracts the best Australian and international performances and provides a stage for the local community to shine,” he said.

The works will include a new and accessible entrance on Ryrie St into the centre, improved accessibility to the Playhouse Theatre and studios, improve the visitor experience and provide two new foyers and bar area. Two stateof-the-art studio and rehearsal spaces for community use will also be developed.

Geelong MP Christine Cousens said the redevelopment would ensure the centre could continue to help regional Australians develop theatre skills and kickstart their careers.

“Some of Australia’s best known stars have started out at GPAC and today the centre hosts more than 30,000 students and aspiring performers a year,” Ms Cousens said.