Created: Aug 18, 2024 08:00

Plans have been submitted to transform the former Park Authority headquarters into an innovative art space for Masterworks (photo by Akil Simmons)

Plans to convert the former headquarters of the park administration into an art studio and cultural center were pushed forward with a planning application.

The submission said the project would include an expansion of the footprint of the historic building, repair work and internal changes to the structure of the Botanical Garden.

The ground floor of the building will include a multi-purpose classroom, as well as a sculpture area, a darkroom and expanded bathroom facilities.

Four studios for artists will be created on the upper floor.

The listed building, dating back to 1898, was closed in 2018 due to “serious mold problems.”

In February, Lieutenant Colonel David Burch, Minister of Public Works, along with Risa Hunter, CEO of Masterworks, announced a collaboration between the government and the art museum to revitalize the building.

Proposed ground floor plan for the new Masterworks facility (image from planning documents)

Colonel Burch noted that the museum had approached his department with a proposal to lease and renovate the state property at no cost to the taxpayer.

He said at the time: “The successful conversion of the former Arrowroot factory building is an example of the benefits Masterworks offers our community.

“This demonstrates their commitment to repurposing historic spaces to enrich our living cultural heritage.”

A statement said: “Masterworks will offer courses, lectures, workshops, technical support and studio space for practicing artists at every stage of their career.”

Engineering firm iEPC Ltd said the building would be Bermuda’s first arts and design centre and a cultural hub for the park.

The existing plans for the ground floor (left) and first floor of the former Park Administration headquarters (image from planning documents)