The Hepworth Wakefield wins First Award

Just days before it opened to the public, Yorkshire’s major new art gallery won its first award.

The Condé Nast Traveller 5th Annual Innovation & Design Awards for Culture recognizes the innovative design and architecture of The Hepworth Wakefield.

Simon Wallis, Director of The Hepworth Wakefield joined Sir David Chipperfield to receive the award presented by British artist Tracy Emin, at a special ceremony held at the newly opened St Pancras Renaissance Hotel London.

An expert panel of judges compiled a shortlist of exciting recent designs across 10 categories which were revealed in a special supplement in the May 2011 issue of Condé Nast Traveller and online at www.cntraveller.com.   The magazine’s global readership was then invited to vote for its choice of winner online at www.cntraveller.com.

Cllr Peter Box, Leader of Wakefield Council said:

“What a great achievement for Wakefield. The Hepworth Wakefield looks set to be one of our most prestigious cultural attractions and will make a huge contribution to the District’s economy through its appeal to visitors from across Yorkshire and beyond.

“In conjunction with the Yorkshire Sculpture Park it establishes the District as the home of contemporary sculpture, boosting the District’s cultural offer and bringing it international recognition.”

Simon Wallis, Director of The Hepworth Wakefield said:

“This is a fantastic early endorsement of The Hepworth Wakefield. Our world-class building designed by one of this country’s leading architects, Sir David Chipperfield, is the perfect showcase for Wakefield’s internationally important collection of art, our ambitious contemporary programme and a fitting home for the city’s long-held ambition to be recognised as the birthplace of Barbara Hepworth.”