The Christchurch Art Gallery has a special place in the hearts of many residents.
It was opened in 2003 but suffered significant damage after the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes, sinking into the mud. For the next five years it was used as a Civil Defence building and was closed to the public while improvements were made. It has now regained its former glory. Its impressive, sculpted glass wall façade can stand by itself and the glass panels have ball joints that allow the wall of glass to flex. It is the largest art institution in the South Island and host to many of the city’s treasure, so it was sorely missed. It was important to reconnect with the public and for that, communication was key.