PEOPLE
Mayor’s Message
WORDS: Tom Tate PHOTOGRAPHY Brian Usher - www.usherusher.com
I cannot recall a city project that has given me such a sense of pride as the opening of our HOTA Gallery.
On May 8, our arts and cultural evolution came to life with thousands of residents there to celebrate the Home Of The Arts.
This gallery adds a vital layer to our social fabric and will help broaden our economy as people from across Australia visit and take a look inside this magical building.
Importantly, the gallery now allows our precious City Art Collection to be displayed. Over the past 40 years, the City has brought together more than 4500 art pieces valued at $32 million.
These were left in dark storage – literally – for decades. Well, not anymore.
This precinct will not only boost our arts and cultural economy but will show Australia that we are serious about our city’s soul. We have a great story to tell and that will shine through at HOTA.
I urge every Gold Coaster including the city’s school students and seniors to wander through the six levels of art as well as a children’s gallery, restaurant and rooftop viewing area.
I know our cultural precinct will continue to evolve with new attractions and facilities planned at HOTA.
And while I’m mayor, entry to the general gallery will always remain free, with only the touring exhibitions being ticket-priced events.
