UJ Arts & Culture is pleased to announce that renovations to the UJ Art Gallery have commenced. The renovations will address longstanding infrastructure requirements while ensuring that the Gallery continues to provide a world-class environment for the presentation and engagement with contemporary art, serving artists, students, researchers and audiences.
The site has being handed over to the appointed contractors, with construction expected to take place over the next few months.
While the renovations are focused on the UJ Art Gallery, the construction footprint will extend into parts of the surrounding UJ Arts Centre precinct. A significant portion of the area immediately outside the Gallery, including part of the piazza and foyer-facing area, will be temporarily allocated to the contractor for construction purposes.
As a result, staff, students, external clients, partners and visitors to the UJ Arts Centre can expect temporary changes to the appearance, access and use of the piazza and surrounding areas during the renovation period. Construction hoarding, contractor activity, equipment and restricted-access areas may be visible, and normal pedestrian movement through parts of the precinct may be affected.
Should any internal or external client with an upcoming booking feel that the construction activity may materially affect their event or the experience of their guests, we encourage them to contact the UJ Arts & Culture team as soon as possible. The team will work with clients to assess the impact on their booking and, where necessary, discuss appropriate alternatives, including changes to the booking or cancellation.
The UJ Arts Centre remains operational
UJ Arts & Culture will continue to present its programme during this period. Where construction activity affects access to a particular event, venue or area, this will be communicated directly to audiences in advance.
We ask staff, students, visitors and partners to please take note of construction signage and access restrictions when visiting the UJ Arts Centre and to allow additional time where necessary.
While we recognise that the construction period will temporarily affect the usual experience and appearance of the precinct, the renovations represent an important investment in the future of the UJ Art Gallery and its ability to serve artists, students, researchers and audiences.
UJ Arts & Culture appreciates the patience and cooperation of the UJ community, our partners and visitors while this important work is undertaken.