What is the Hayward Gallery and where is it located?

The Hayward Gallery is an art gallery situated within the Southbank Centre in central London, England. It is part of a significant cluster of arts venues located on the South Bank of the River Thames, adjacent to other notable institutions like the Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, Purcell Room, the National Theatre, and BFI Southbank.

When was the Hayward Gallery opened, and what was its name prior to 2007?

The Hayward Gallery officially opened its doors on July 9, 1968. Following a rebranding of the South Bank Centre to Southbank Centre in early 2007, the gallery was known simply as the Hayward until early 2011.

What architectural style is characteristic of the Hayward Gallery, and what materials are prominently used?

The Hayward Gallery is a prime example of Brutalist architecture, characterized by its imposing massing and extensive use of exposed concrete construction. This style emphasizes raw, unadorned materials and bold geometric forms.

Who were the principal architects and designers involved in the initial concept and development of the Hayward Gallery?

The initial concept for the Hayward Gallery, along with the Queen Elizabeth Hall and Purcell Room, was developed by a team led by Norman Engleback. He was assisted by John Attenborough, Ron Herron, and Warren Chalk, who were associated with the Archigram group and the Department of Architecture and Civic Design of the Greater London Council. Warren Chalk was responsible for the site plan and connective walkways, while Ron Herron focused on acoustics. Alan Waterhouse and Dennis Crompton also contributed to the designs.

Who is the Hayward Gallery named after?

The gallery is named in honor of Sir Isaac Hayward, who previously served as the leader of the London County Council, the predecessor to the Greater London Council (GLC).

What is the exhibition policy of the Hayward Gallery regarding its collection?

The Hayward Gallery operates without a permanent collection. Instead, it focuses on hosting three to four major temporary exhibitions of modern and contemporary artworks each year, showcasing a diverse range of artistic expressions.

Does the Hayward Gallery charge admission fees for its exhibitions?

Yes, unlike British galleries that possess permanent collections and receive government funding, the Hayward Gallery charges admission fees. This practice is common for temporary exhibitions held at London's public galleries.

What range of art periods has the Hayward Gallery featured in its exhibitions?

The Hayward Gallery's exhibition policy is broad, encompassing visual art from all periods. Past exhibitions have included works by renowned artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Edvard Munch, demonstrating a wide historical scope.

What type of contemporary art exhibitions does the Hayward Gallery tend to focus on, and why?

While open to all periods, the gallery's program often concentrates on surveys of contemporary art. These exhibitions tend to complement the specific spatial qualities and the robust concrete structure of the building, as seen in shows featuring artists like Dan Flavin and Antony Gormley.

How have the outdoor sculpture courts of the Hayward Gallery been utilized?

The massive concrete outdoor sculpture courts were intended for displaying art against the city backdrop but have been found to be largely impractical for public use and were often closed. They saw more significant use during Antony Gormley's 'Blind Light' exhibition in 2007.

Describe the internal circulation and structural elements within the Hayward Gallery.

The two public levels of the Hayward Gallery are connected by a pair of cast concrete staircases. These staircases, along with lavatories, are housed within a concrete box situated between the eastern and western sections of the indoor galleries. Three concrete towers also run vertically through the building, containing passenger lifts, service lifts, and service ducts.

What was the original main foyer like, and how has it been modified?

The building originally featured a very small main foyer with cast aluminum doors, similar to those at the Queen Elizabeth Hall. In 2003, the foyer underwent a significant remodel, resulting in a larger, glass-fronted space. This renovation also included a new oval glass pavilion designed by Dan Graham, situated above a new cafe.

How is natural light utilized within the upper galleries of the Hayward Gallery?

The two upper galleries of the Hayward Gallery can utilize natural light, which is heavily filtered through glass pyramids located on their flat roofs.

What was the kinetic light sculpture on the roof of the Hayward Gallery, and what happened to it?

Between 1972 and 2008, a kinetic light sculpture designed by Philip Vaughan and Roger Dainton stood on the roof of the passenger lift tower. This sculpture, which responded to wind force, was intended to attract visitors. It was removed for renovations, which included updating its lighting system to LEDs, but it was ultimately decided not to reinstall it.

What is the current status of the roof terrace and linking bridge at the south end of the Hayward Gallery?

The roof terrace at the south end of the Hayward Gallery and its linking bridge to the Queen Elizabeth Hall foyer building are currently closed to the public. This closure limits some of the pedestrian circulation possibilities envisioned in the original design, although they were temporarily opened for a festival in 2011.

How does the Hayward Gallery's design respond to its specific site?

Despite its seemingly uncompromising form, the Hayward Gallery's design incorporates elements that respond to its site. For example, the angled shape of the south-west corner sculpture court reflects the change in the site's angle between Waterloo Bridge and Festival Square. Additionally, the differing lines of the walls at ground and walkway levels on the north facade reconcile the distinct axes of the Hayward and the Royal Festival Hall.

What functions are housed at the street level and lower ground level of the Hayward Gallery?

At street level, the south-west corner of the building contains an electrical switch room. The majority of the lower ground level is occupied by a car park, and a plant room is situated at the east end above the car park, featuring a concrete exhaust stack near Waterloo Bridge.

How did the high-level walkway system connected to the Hayward Gallery change over time?

The high-level walkway system that once linked the Hayward Gallery to the Hungerford Bridge area was partially removed in the spring of 1999. This removal resulted in a truncated end on Festival Square and diminished access from that area, further complicated by the placement of the car park and loading bay entrances.

When was the Hayward Gallery added to the protected list by the World Monuments Fund?

The Hayward Gallery was added to the protected list by the World Monuments Fund in 2011. This designation recognizes its cultural and architectural significance.

What renovations did the Hayward Gallery undergo, and when did it re-open?

The gallery temporarily closed in September 2015 for a two-year renovation period. It subsequently re-opened in early 2018, following this significant refurbishment.

What architectural plans were considered for the future of the Hayward building and adjacent structures in the early 1990s?

In the early 1990s, a proposed scheme designed by Richard Rogers suggested covering the Hayward Gallery, Queen Elizabeth Hall, and Purcell Room under a large, wave-shaped glass roof. This ambitious plan aimed to link the Royal Festival Hall to Waterloo Bridge but did not proceed due to funding concerns and opposition from heritage groups.

What specific refurbishment work was carried out between 2015 and 2018?

The refurbishment work undertaken between 2015 and 2018, planned by Feilden Clegg Bradley, included essential structural repairs. Key elements of this work involved renewing the approximately 60 steel and glass pyramids on the gallery's roof and removing a false ceiling that had obstructed natural light in the upper galleries.

What is the significance of the image showing a staircase by the Queens Walk?

The image of the staircase by the Queens Walk illustrates the internal connectivity within the Southbank Centre complex. It highlights how the Hayward Gallery's circulation is integrated with adjacent structures like the Queen Elizabeth Hall, connecting different levels from the ground to the roof terrace.

What is the purpose of the 'Authority control' section at the end of the article?

The 'Authority control' section provides standardized identifiers for the Hayward Gallery across various international and national databases. These identifiers, such as ISNI, VIAF, and Library of Congress Control Numbers, help uniquely identify the institution and link related information across different systems, aiding in data consistency and research.

Which members of the Archigram group were involved in the initial concept of the Hayward Gallery?

Two members of the Archigram group, Ron Herron and Warren Chalk, were involved in the initial concept and design development of the Hayward Gallery.

What was the purpose of the screens that formerly enclosed the car park near the Hayward Gallery?

The screens that previously enclosed the car park by the central access road were used to advertise the National Film Theatre (later BFI Southbank) and the Museum of the Moving Image. These screens were removed in 2008 to create a more open feel at the ground level.

What is the role of Arts Council England in relation to the Hayward Gallery?

Arts Council England manages the Hayward Gallery's National Touring Exhibitions program. Until 2002, it was also responsible for the Arts Council Collection, which was housed at the gallery.

What is the significance of the Hayward Gallery being listed by the World Monuments Fund?

The inclusion of the Hayward Gallery on the World Monuments Fund's protected list in 2011 signifies its recognition as a site of global cultural heritage that requires preservation and protection.

What specific architectural practice designed the remodeled foyer in 2003?

The architectural practice Haworth Tompkins was responsible for the remodeling of the Hayward Gallery's foyer in 2003, which included the creation of a larger, glass-fronted entrance and the integration of a new cafe space.

How did the Hayward Gallery's exhibition programming evolve after management transferred to the Southbank Centre?

After management of the gallery passed to the Southbank Centre in 1986, the exhibition policy continued to focus on major temporary exhibitions. While embracing art from various periods, there has been a tendency to concentrate on contemporary art that suits the building's unique architectural character.

What role did Ove Arup & Partners play in the construction of the Hayward Gallery?

Ove Arup & Partners served as the structural engineers for the Hayward Gallery, contributing their expertise to the building's complex concrete structure and design.

What is the significance of the 'Arts Council Collection' mentioned in the context of the Hayward Gallery?

The Arts Council Collection is a significant public collection of British modern and contemporary art. The Hayward Gallery previously housed this collection and has hosted exhibitions specifically showcasing works from it, such as 'British Art 1940–1980' and 'How to Improve the World: 60 Years of British Art'.

What was the purpose of the glass pyramids on the roof of the Hayward Gallery?

The glass pyramids on the flat roofs of the Hayward Gallery serve to allow heavily filtered natural light into the two upper galleries, contributing to the exhibition spaces' ambiance.

What is the relationship between the Hayward Gallery and the Royal Festival Hall?

The Hayward Gallery is located adjacent to the Royal Festival Hall, both being part of the Southbank Centre complex. While distinct venues, their proximity and shared location on the South Bank create a significant cultural hub.

What was the initial design brief for the Hayward Gallery concerning the number and type of gallery spaces?

The initial design brief specified five gallery spaces for the Hayward Gallery. This included two levels of indoor galleries and three outdoor sculpture courts, intended for displaying works in the open air.

Who was the founding director of the Hayward Gallery?

Joanna Drew was the founding director of the Hayward Gallery, establishing its initial direction and programming.

What is the current role of Ralph Rugoff concerning the Hayward Gallery?

Ralph Rugoff has served as the director of the Hayward Gallery since 2006, overseeing its programming and operations.

What was the purpose of the 'Crown Works' reference in the citations?

The 'Crown Works' reference, archived from the Vauxhall Civic Society, likely provides historical context or details related to the construction or location of the Hayward Gallery or its surrounding area.

What specific architectural practice was involved in the 2015-2018 refurbishment plans?

The refurbishment work carried out between 2015 and 2018 was planned under the direction of the architectural practice Feilden Clegg Bradley.

What does the presence of multiple international authority control identifiers (like VIAF, ISNI, etc.) signify for the Hayward Gallery?

The inclusion of multiple international authority control identifiers signifies that the Hayward Gallery is a recognized and cataloged entity within global library and archival systems. These identifiers ensure consistent referencing and facilitate the linking of information about the gallery across different databases and platforms.

How does the Hayward Gallery's lack of a permanent collection influence its exhibition strategy?

The absence of a permanent collection allows the Hayward Gallery to be highly flexible in its exhibition strategy. It can curate shows focused on specific themes, artists, or movements without the constraints of displaying its own holdings, enabling it to host major international loan exhibitions and contemporary art surveys.

What is the significance of the Hayward Gallery being part of the Southbank Centre complex?

Being part of the Southbank Centre complex places the Hayward Gallery at the heart of a major cultural hub in London. This integration allows for potential collaborations with neighboring institutions like the Royal Festival Hall and Queen Elizabeth Hall, and contributes to the vibrant arts scene on the South Bank.

Hayward Gallery Wiki: Hayward Gallery: A Brutalist Icon of London's South Bank

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About the Gallery

Location and Context

The Hayward Gallery is an integral component of the Southbank Centre, situated in the heart of London's vibrant cultural district on the South Bank of the River Thames. It stands adjacent to other prominent arts venues, including the Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, Purcell Room, the National Theatre, and BFI Southbank. Initially known simply as "The Hayward" following a rebranding of the Southbank Centre in 2007, it reverted to its original name, Hayward Gallery, by early 2011.

Inauguration and Management

Opened on 9 July 1968, the Hayward Gallery was constructed by Higgs and Hill. For its initial years, from 1968 to 1986, its management was overseen by the Arts Council of Great Britain. Subsequently, management responsibilities transitioned to the Southbank Centre. The gallery operates on a model distinct from many British institutions, charging admission fees for its temporary exhibitions, a practice common among London's public galleries hosting such events.

Architectural Heritage

Designed as part of a larger complex, the Hayward Gallery is a significant example of Brutalist architecture. Its distinctive massing and the prominent use of exposed concrete construction are hallmarks of this style. The initial concept was developed by a team including Norman Engleback, Ron Herron, Warren Chalk, and John Attenborough, members of the Greater London Council's Department of Architecture and Civic Design. The building is named in honour of Sir Isaac Hayward, a former leader of the London County Council.

Curatorial Approach

No Permanent Collection

A defining characteristic of the Hayward Gallery is its lack of a permanent collection. Instead, it is dedicated to hosting three to four major temporary exhibitions annually, focusing on modern and contemporary art. This approach allows for dynamic programming that can engage with diverse artistic movements and individual artists.

Diverse Artistic Scope

The gallery's exhibition policy embraces visual art across various periods. While it has showcased works from historical figures such as Leonardo da Vinci and Edvard Munch, its programme has increasingly concentrated on surveys of contemporary art. These exhibitions often leverage the building's distinctive concrete structure and spatial qualities, featuring artists like Dan Flavin and Antony Gormley.

Arts Council Collection

The Hayward Gallery has served as a venue for significant exhibitions drawn from the Arts Council Collection. Notable examples include retrospectives such as British Art 1940–1980 and How to Improve the World: 60 Years of British Art. It also historically served as the base for Arts Council England's National Touring Exhibitions programme.

Architectural Design

Brutalist Form and Function

The Hayward Gallery is a quintessential example of Brutalist architecture, characterized by its robust concrete structure and geometric forms. The design brief called for five gallery spaces: two levels of indoor galleries and three outdoor sculpture courts. The extensive use of exposed concrete is a defining feature, contributing to its monumental presence.

The building's structure is articulated by prominent cast concrete staircases that link the public gallery levels. These, along with essential services, are housed within a central concrete box. The original design intended the upper levels to feature outdoor sculpture courts, intended to display works against the London skyline. However, these spaces proved largely impractical for their intended purpose and have seen limited use, often remaining closed to the public until specific exhibitions, such as Antony Gormley's Blind Light in 2007, utilized them.

The building's roof is adorned with distinctive glass pyramids, which originally provided filtered natural light to the upper galleries. Three concrete towers punctuate the structure, housing lifts and service ducts. A notable feature was a kinetic light sculpture atop the passenger lift tower, a landmark from 1972 to 2008, which was removed during renovations and not reinstated.

Site Integration and Circulation

Despite its imposing form, the Hayward Gallery's design responds thoughtfully to its site. The angled plan of the south-corner sculpture court reflects the site's orientation between Waterloo Bridge and Festival Square. The high-level walkway system, though partially altered over time, originally aimed for a vertical separation of pedestrian and vehicle traffic, a common concept in 1960s urban planning. The differing lines of the walls at ground and walkway levels reconcile the axes of the Hayward and the Royal Festival Hall, demonstrating a sophisticated integration with its surroundings.

Evolution and Renovations

Early Proposals and Challenges

In the early 1990s, a significant architectural competition proposed a radical transformation of the Hayward Gallery and adjacent buildings. Richard Rogers' winning design envisioned covering the complex with a large, wave-shaped glass roof, linking the Royal Festival Hall to Waterloo Bridge. However, this ambitious project did not proceed, primarily due to its reliance on substantial lottery funding and opposition from heritage groups like the Twentieth Century Society, who feared it would detract from the individual architectural integrity of the existing structures.

Recent Refurbishments

The gallery underwent significant refurbishment between 2015 and 2018, guided by plans developed by Feilden Clegg Bradley. This extensive work addressed critical structural repairs, including the renewal of the sixty-odd steel and glass pyramids on the roof. A key aspect of the renovation was the removal of a false ceiling that had obstructed the natural light reaching the upper galleries, restoring a crucial element of the original design intent.

Recognition and Future

In 2011, the Hayward Gallery was added to the protected list by the World Monuments Fund, acknowledging its architectural significance. The building's ongoing evolution reflects a commitment to preserving its unique character while adapting it for contemporary artistic and public use. The gallery continues to be a vital platform for showcasing cutting-edge contemporary art within a historically important architectural setting.

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References

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This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not be exhaustive or entirely current. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, the information should be verified through official sources.

This is not professional architectural or art historical advice. The information provided herein is not a substitute for consultation with qualified professionals. Always refer to official documentation and consult with experts for specific architectural, curatorial, or historical inquiries.

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Hayward Gallery

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

About the Gallery ℹ️

📍 Location and Context

🗓️ Inauguration and Management

🏛️ Architectural Heritage

Curatorial Approach 🎨

🖼️ No Permanent Collection

🌍 Diverse Artistic Scope

📜 Arts Council Collection

Architectural Design 🏗️

🧱 Brutalist Form and Function

🔗 Site Integration and Circulation

Evolution and Renovations 🔄

💡 Early Proposals and Challenges

🛠️ Recent Refurbishments

🌟 Recognition and Future

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

About the Gallery

Location and Context

Inauguration and Management

Architectural Heritage

Curatorial Approach

No Permanent Collection

Diverse Artistic Scope

Arts Council Collection

Architectural Design

Brutalist Form and Function

Site Integration and Circulation

Evolution and Renovations

Early Proposals and Challenges

Recent Refurbishments

Recognition and Future

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice