The project involved rebuilding the patio located in the most recently (1968) erected part of the building of a non-profit public higher education institution, the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdansk, Poland. Thanks to this new, unique space, it has been possible to significantly expand the cultural activities the academy offers to audiences ranging from preschool children to senior citizens.
- 04 March 2019
The project ensured appropriate conditions for the development of the cultural activities of the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk, including implementation of a new cultural programme which strengthens the image of the city as the most important cultural centre in northern Poland and opens up new opportunities for the academy to establish cooperation with other cultural institutions.
The patio was roofed over and a glass wall added, creating an enclosed area for holding cultural activities. The space is connected with two other buildings: the Great Armoury and the 15th-century Słomiana Tower. Completion of the project has made it possible for the academy to develop its offer of cultural activities, participation in which is free of charge.
One of new venue’s greatest successes has been a series of cultural workshops in various fields, addressed to both children and adults. Moreover, a Summer Academy was organised for the first time, which allowed adults to take part in the activities organised during holidays. The initiatives held in the new space had a high attendance – attracting 31 694 people.
New programme
The academy’s expanded programme has included national conferences, lectures and chamber concerts organised in cooperation with the Academy of Music in Gdańsk. They were aimed at a wide audience: from amateurs of cultural education, hobbyists, and enthusiasts to educators, entrepreneurs, and artists.
The broad cultural offer of the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk has created more opportunities for current and potential audiences, contributing to their greater participation in cultural events. The project increased the architectural and aesthetic values of the academy’s building. It has met the expectations of society, to experience culture in an aesthetically pleasing environment.
Important cultural centre
The project has helped strengthen the image of the city as the most important cultural centre in northern Poland and opened opportunities for the academy to establish cooperation with other cultural institutions. These include the Academy of Music in Gdańsk, the Gdańsk City Gallery, the Łaźnia Centre for Contemporary Culture, and the ING Art Foundation, which have organised a number of events for all age groups.
The project resulted in the creation of one job, that of cultural offer specialist.
Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project “Installing a roof patio at the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk to create a unique cultural space.” is EUR 1 698 655 (PLN 7 355 108), with the EU’s European Regional Development Fund contributing EUR 1 100 648 (PLN 4 765 888) through the Infrastructure and Environment Operational Programme for the 2014-2020 programming period. The investment falls under the priority “Social inclusion”.