The Whitworth Gallery reopened on Saturday 14th February 2015 after a £15 million refurbishment. The transformation was supported by a major Heritage Lottery Fund grant, The University of Manchester and Arts Council England. Highlights of the opening weekend included included the first cultural use of graphene; Blake an Abstract, a new ‘meteor shower’ firework display which was created by artist Cornelia Parker and Nobel Prize winning scientist Kostya Novoselov.
The redevelopment has doubled public space and created state-of-the-art new facilities including expanded gallery spaces, a study centre, learning studio, and a collections centre. Leading with a major solo exhibition from one of Britain’s most acclaimed contemporary artists, Cornelia Parker, the opening programme celebrates the Whitworth’s eclectic and extensive collection of historical and contemporary fine art, textiles and wallpapers.
Dr Maria Balshaw, Director of the Whitworth said “‘The Whitworth’s founding was that it be for the perpetual gratification of the people of Manchester. Watching nearly 18,000 people enjoy the new gallery on the opening weekend showed just how special this place is. The support from the local community has been overwhelming and we hope that they will continue to enjoy the Whitworth for the next 126 years’.