The Journey
As part of an inspiring new vision for the National Glass Centre at the University of Sunderland, an ambitious re-development of the Centre will begin in January 2013.
Following the successful completion of Phase 1 in September 2012, which saw the National Glass Centre re-model their glass studio and shop, the second phase will completely modernise and refresh the Centre for the 21st century.
From 1 January 2013 the Centre will temporarily close to the public as its entire upper floor is re-modelled, with the addition of a brand new heritage gallery, upgraded education and resource rooms and improved teaching and learning facilities and significantly increased exhibition capacity.
The project is due for completion in Summer 2013 when the Centre will re-open to the public with a high profile launch event, the opening of three exhibitions of national significance and an ambitious community engagement programme. This re-development will strengthen the National Glass Centre’s reputation as a Centre for national excellence. With local impact and international reach, the Centre will build on the unique heritage of Sunderland, bringing to the City a premier visitor attraction and unique cultural venue.
During the re-development period the National Glass Centre will be engaging in extensive outreach programmes with local schools and the community and will continue to hold a selection of Adult Courses, Studio Experiences and Family Activities on the Ground Floor Level. Visit www.nationalglasscentre.com for further information.
Phase One, Complete: May – September 2012
The first phase of the development of the National Glass Centre took place between May and September 2012 with a focus on new accommodation for the University of Sunderland’s Art & Design Foundation programme on the lower ground floor of the building. The teaching and studio hot-shops have been brought together and reoriented, greatly improving visitors’ experience of the live production of glass, as well as our teaching facilities. The shop, which lies adjacent to the hot glass studio, has been remodelled to create a better shopping environment and improve merchandising.
Phase Two: January – Summer 2013
Phase Two will see significant investment in the upper ground floor galleries. This phase will double the exhibition and events capacity of the Centre, upgrading and modernising the gallery spaces, education and resource rooms and enabling the Centre to better meet the needs of the visitor, schools and groups.