New art space unveiled at Alice Springs Residency

A new art exhibition space is among the new additions to The Residency heritage-listed building in Alice Springs, following extensive renovations by the Northern Territory Government.

Explaining the development, Northern Territory Minister for Arts and Museums Matt Conlan “these renovations have rescued The Residency and turned it into the great landmark it should be for our town.

“The Residency belongs to all of the people of Alice Springs ... that’s why the ... Government is investing $120,000 into the building so we can enhance its wonderful attributes and see it fulfil its potential as a valued historical house in Alice Springs.

“The Residency is a part of our rich history and it is important we take steps to ensure our heritage is preserved for future generations. The house now looks fantastic, and is a proper museum and another attraction in our great town for tourists and locals to enjoy.”

The Northern Territory Government’s investment of $50,000 on upgrades to the building included:

• Restoration of the floors to their original painted concrete

• Repairs to the building’s ageing windows so that they can now all open

• Upgrades to the kitchen so that it can be used for catering purposes

• New rose bushes, flowers and a lemon tree planted in the garden

• New art gallery with new lighting to accommodate small art exhibitions.

Minister Conlan said further funding of $70,000 has been allocated to Heritage Alice Springs to work with managers of the building, the Araluen Cultural Precinct, to stage arts programs and events at The Residency over the next year.

He added “this grant includes funding for a part time co-ordinator and will help deliver a series of art exhibitions, music and performance art events such as poetry reading and literature events at The Residency’s new art space.

“These events will highlight the importance of The Residency as an iconic Central Australian building and are a part of the (Government’s) plan to revitalise our CBD to help provide a boost to local businesses and the economy.

“As it did when it first opened, in 1927, I hope that the new Residency will continue to provide a hub of social and cultural activities for both local residents and visitors to Alice Springs.”

The Residency will be open from Monday to Friday from 10am to 3pm, and on Sundays, on Todd Mall Market Days, from 10am to 2pm.