Since it opened on April 12 1991 the gallery has been an important part of an increasingly vibrant visual arts scene in Nottingham and in its early years commissioned new work by artists such as Anya Gallaccio, John Newling, Alison Wilding and the late Helen Chadwick.
From the outset the gallery’s programme established a breathless pace, hosting over 200 exhibitions, with work by over 1200 artists in its main spaces alone, as well as numerous associated commissions, events, touring exhibitions and education projects.
It now makes way as part of Nottingham City Council’s desire to work with a range of partners to create better facilities and a greater profile for visual art in Nottingham.
The ambitious plans for CCAN build on the work of Angel Row Gallery and the new gallery space is now poised to take contemporary art in the city to a new level, with world-class exhibition and event spaces, and an international programme led by internationally renowned curator, critic and writer Alex Farquharson who was appointed as the centre’s first Director in April 2007.
Sensitively designed by architects Caruso St John, the new centre will occupy a prime regeneration site in Nottingham’s Lace Market.
Funding for the project has been secured from Arts Council East Midlands, Nottingham City Council, East Midlands Development Agency, Greater Nottingham Partnership and a range of other supporters whilst the council’s revenue funds for Angel Row Gallery have transferred to support the development of CCAN.
The centre is due to open to the public in Autumn 2008.
