'New look' Gallery opens on 1st October 2010

The National Gallery of Australia has confirmed that its 'New Look' Stage One Building Project will open to the public on Friday 1st October 2010.

The redevelopment is the biggest transformation of the Gallery since its opening in 1982 and will be officially opened by the Governor General of the Commonwealth of Australia, Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC on the evening of Thursday 30th September 2010.

The new building includes 11 new Indigenous art galleries showcasing works from the largest collection of Australian Indigenous art in the world. For the first time in one place, visitors will experience the great diversity, richness and complexity of Australian Indigenous art, which is as alive today as it was thousands of years ago. The Gallery's collection spans generations and is representative of the arts of Indigenous groups from all over Australia.

Another new addition is Gandel Hall, a purpose-built function space for art events, openings and corporate functions, which opens up onto the new beautifully designed Australian Gardens.

Gandel Hall is named after Melbourne-based philanthropists Pauline and John Gandel, whose recent $7 million cash donation to Gallery was the biggest in its history.

American artist James Turrell has created a monumental 'Skyspace' sculpture in the new gardens, in the shape of a magnificent dome through which viewers can view the ever-changing light patterns of the sky.

The 'New Look' National Gallery of Australia also includes a new shop and sidewalk cafe.

A whole program of exhibitions and special events will celebrate the opening season at the National Gallery of Australia in Canberra.