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firstsite is one of the leading visual arts organisations in the East of England. Based in Colchester, it has seen visitor numbers grow by 450% since opening with an estimated annual baseline of between 120,000- 150,000 which simply could not be accommodated in it's former inflexible non DDA compliant premises. firstsite:newsite is a world class facility designed by architect Rafael Viñoly and is currently under construction in the centre of Colchester. Most of the funds for the capital costs have been secured through an innovative partnership, we just need the last bit ….
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firstsite:newsite is a partnership project between Arts Council England, the East of England Development Agency, Essex County Council and Colchester Borough Council, The University of Essex and firstsite. It will have local, regional, national and international significance. firstsite:newsite is a culmination of thirteen years work and is the first purpose built visual arts facility in the region. This is a chance for firstsite to realise its full potential after years of development of its services, establishing in particular a responsive and relevant programme for contemporary art and an acclaimed education and outreach programme. Rafael Viñoly’s inspired design is a single storied structure that hugs an antique crescent of trees. Clad entirely in a golden coloured metal (TECU® Gold) the sweeping curve of the building crescendos upwards and outwards towards its wide 13 metre high fully glazed entrance. This is a gallery redefined as a social space, deliberately designed to break down the barriers between artistic, educational, social and economic activity. Features include: A 200 seat auditorium for screenings, conferences and lectures, a resources centre with a computer hub, fully equipped learning studios for up to 60 participants, a shop stocking artist made goods and art publications, 90 seat café/restaurant with terrace, and a variety of presentation spaces including an artist space for residencies and a micro-climate room with strict security and humidity controls for older and very famous works. The building that is fast taking shape, is one of the key drivers for the regeneration of Colchester, particularly its rundown east end where a cultural quarter is planned. Once resident in the new building, firstsite will be a strong credible specialist within the region to support the vibrant and growing Creative Industries sector, enriching regional identity, increasing the value of tourism and spending in the area, creating jobs and a wealth of opportunity for local people and businesses. To help this exciting project open firstsite needs to secure £100,000 towards the capital costs.