COASTAL GALLERIES ANNOUNCE COOL PLANS FOR THE ICE HOUSE
2009-06-10
Coastal Galleries - an innovative Welsh art group with showrooms in Saundersfoot and Narberth - is expanding its operations to Swansea and opening a flagship centre at the historic Ice House on SA1.
Coastal Galleries is leasing approximately two thirds of the Ice House from the Landas Group which is currently in discussions with a South Wales based restaurant operation for the remainder of the space.
The Grade II Listed Ice House, which dates back to 1880, is believed to be one of only two remaining dockside ice factories in the country. It was originally built to provide ice for the local fishing fleet but has been the subject of an extensive restoration and renovation programme.
Chris Elliot, Managing Director of Coastal Galleries said The Ice House would not only be a stunning avant-garde gallery, but a stylish new wine bar.
“It is a fascinating building that has been superbly restored and in a great location. Coastal Galleries at The Icehouse will offer the unique opportunity to appreciate fine wine in conjunction with the finest artwork on the contemporary art market which we believe will be a winning combination.”
A diverse range of original paintings, collectable limited editions and sculptures from internationally renowned artists, together with a selection of rare and exclusive wines, will be unveiled at The Ice House this August.
The Ice House is one of three historic landmark buildings on the £400 million SA1 development where the Welsh Assembly Government is transforming 100 acres of disused dockland to create a dynamic and sustainable new quarter for the city.
Ieuan Wyn Jones, Minister for the Economy and Transport, said the Ice House formed an important part of the city’s maritime heritage and was now set to play a new role in Swansea’s economy.
“Sustainability and high quality design are at the heart of the SA1 development so it is important that new uses have been found for this iconic building while also enabling a Welsh based business to expand its operations.”
Mr. Elliott said Coastal Galleries has built up a reputation for hosting an exciting range of art exhibitions and a varied events programme ranging from wine tastings to a number of “artist in attendance” shows that would form the core of The Icehouse experience.
“Mixing wine and art events will captivate the attention of a brand new audience, and offer the ultimate art-buying experience and our aim is to become the ultimate social venue in Swansea - reinforcing the Coastal Galleries’ philosophy of making “art accessible to all,” he explained.
Coastal Galleries was only established in 2006 but has grown from strength to strength and its investment in Swansea will be its third state-of- the-art gallery.
Lorna Elliot said Coastal Galleries presented the very best in international contemporary art and offered new art buyers paintings and editions at introductory pricing, while allowing collectors to purchase major pieces of art.
“Coastal Galleries at The Icehouse, will bring an exciting new art venue to the heart of Wales, offering a diverse range of artists including top names such as Rolf Harris, Doug Hyde, Sherree Valentine Daines and Fabián Pérez, as well as showcasing fresh new talent from around the world to ensure that the product offering remains fresh, cutting edge and exciting.
She added that Swansea was the perfect location for their flagship store:” The Icehouse is such a beautiful building, set in such a picturesque location and we know that by bringing Coastal Galleries to SA1e, we will ensure The Icehouse will become a fabulous destination venue for the people of Swansea and beyond”, she said.
For more information contact:
Shan Ekin-Wood
Press Office
Welsh Assembly Government
Tel 02920 898636
