Portsmouth Art Gallery Gets a Major Makeover!
Construction has kicked off at Portsmouth’s top contemporary art gallery, housed in its iconic waterfront venue at Gunwharf Quays. Thanks to a hefty £158,504 boost from Arts Council England’s National Lottery-funded capital grants, Aspex is ready for a fresh new look.
Big Upgrades for Visitors and Artists
Backing from the Foyle Foundation has turbocharged the project, allowing a smart rethink of the gallery’s layout to boost facilities for both visitors and artists. After nearly a decade in the Vulcan Building, Aspex called in architects Manalo & White to cook up clever ways to better engage its audience.
Local contractor Building IS is leading the charge, transforming the former participation space into a shiny new artist’s studio. The makeover doesn’t stop there — environmental upgrades and a digital revamp are all on the cards.
Café Moves and Community Spirit
The beloved gallery café, run by award-winning social enterprise Lily & Lime LD, will move to a new spot as part of the build. To make way, the café will close for four weeks starting Monday 25 April.
Gallery Stays Open—Fun for All Ages!
Despite the ongoing work, the gallery remains fully open—offering exhibitions, a shop, and workshops for everyone from toddlers to those living with Dementia. The renovations aim to open up the arts to even more people across the city.
Set to wrap up in June, the revamped gallery will debut new activities, including its first-ever artist-in-residence in the new studio and free weekly ‘Family Saturdays’ to inspire creativity in kids, parents, and grandparents alike.
