Gallery Oldham

Architects, Pringle Richards Sharratt, designed Gallery Oldham as a landmark building, making extensive use of glass, concrete, metal and terracotta, complementing other architecture in the surrounding area. The focus of the Gallery, which opened to the public in February 2002, is a double-height foyer behind a glazed wall, giving access to all parts of the building. The design, both inside and out, makes use of modern materials which incorporate high levels of energy efficiency. It is a distinctive building, making a confident statement about the importance of the arts in Oldham and attracting people to its welcoming and accessible facilities.

Three gallery spaces extend along the length of the upper floor inside the curved metal roof, with double height glazing and balconies along the outside of the central gallery, allowing impressive views of hills to the south. A high level link bridge forms a walkway and hanging space for art between the new exhibition spaces and the former gallery in the neighbouring Grade 2 listed building.

The three storey building also provides storage for the Borough's Art Collection in environmentally controlled conditions, a multi-media Education Suite and a shop which sells cards, gifts and jewellery.

Gallery Oldham takes an innovative and unique approach to exhibition programming. Integration of the once separate Museum and Gallery Services allows programming which incorporates Oldham's extensive Art, Social and Natural History Collections alongside touring work, newly commissioned art, international art and work produced with local communities.

Gallery Oldham's foyer is shared with Oldham's state of the art  Library and Lifelong Learning Centre. The foyer is also home to Oldham's Tourist Information Centre.

Landscaping

The garden, situated in the centre of the Cultural Quarter, has been re-modelled to allow greater access for buggies and wheelchairs, making it accessible to everyone. Much of the former design has been retained with the addition of a path leading from Union Street down to the Gallery entrance.

The Gallery is a 10 minute walk from Oldham Mumps railway station and Oldham bus station. The nearest car park is Southgate Street pay and display. There are two disabled parking spaces next to the Gallery and several spaces on the Southgate Street car park, with access to the Gallery across Southgate Street.

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Oldham Council, Civic Centre, West Street, Oldham, OL1 1UT.
Telephone 0161 770 3000