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As part of a transformation of its permanent exhibits, Wellington’s Te Papa has announced that it will open a spectacular new art gallery space in the museum in late 2017,

With many of the exhibits having been in the museum since it opened in 1998, Chief Executive Rick Ellis announced a changing of galleries over the coming years with the art gallery, which currently occupies levels five and six of Te Papa, being the first area to change.

As a result, the current Ngā Toi Arts Te Papa gallery will close on Sunday 26th February 2017, with the new art space opening in late 2017. Entry will be free.

The space for art at Te Papa will grow 35% from 2,430 metre² to 3,290 metre² over levels four and five, including a spectacular new double-height gallery with an entrance opposite Te Papa’s upstairs café.

The new space with its eight-metre-high walls will enable Te Papa to show large sculptural works, and offer immersive art experiences on a scale never seen before at the museum.

Explaining that Te Papa expects to invest $6 million in creating the new art experience, Ellis stated “this transformation of Te Papa is a once-in-a-generation opportunity, making Te Papa a must-see-again destination for every New Zealander.

“The new art space will enable us to show more of the national art collection, and create a world-class art experiences for our visitors.”

Te Papa’s Head of Art Charlotte Davy says the new art offering at Te Papa would offer more space, and the opportunity to create a very different art experience.

Davy added “as the holders of the national art collection, Te Papa is uniquely placed to share the art of Aotearoa.

“In this expanded space there will be more room for exciting and challenging new works, as well as beloved classics.”

“We are creating new opportunities for New Zealand artists, as we commission new works to feature in this stunning new gallery.”

With the gallery would include a dedicated area for works by iconic New Zealand artists, Davy adds “when people come to Te Papa, they will know they can see works on display by artists like Charles Goldie, Rita Angus, Colin McCahon and Ralph Hotere.”

Architects Warren and Mahoney are designing the new art space.

Te Papa will remain open throughout the changes.

Image of the planned gallery which will include a dedicated area for works by iconic New Zealand artists, courtesy of Warren and Mahoney.

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