BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Arts

What?

• BALTIC is the biggest art gallery of its kind in the world, presenting a dynamic, diverse and international programme of contemporary visual art
• Converted from a 1950s flour mill, BALTIC is located on the south bank of the river Tyne, at the foot of the Gateshead Millennium Bridge
• Designed by architect Dominic Williams, the building features 3000 square metres of arts space, artists’ studios, cinema and lecture space, a library and an archive for the study of contemporary art
• While showcasing contemporary art to a wide range of visitors from across the world, BALTIC caters particularly for groups from schools, colleges, and universities through a range of educational programmes and courses

When?

• Construction began in 1998 with BALTIC opening its doors for the first time at midnight on Saturday 13 July 2002

How?

• BALTIC was conceived in 1991, when Northern Arts (now Arts Council England North East) announced its ambition to achieve ‘major new capital facilities for the Contemporary Visual Arts in Central Tyneside’
• Construction began in 1998, with only the south and north facades of the original 1950s mill building retained
• BALTIC was made possible thanks to funding from The National Lottery through Arts Council England, Gateshead Council and the Northern Rock Foundation. It is supported by the European Regional Development Fund and One North East

Summary