A prospective site for the proposed $20-million Art Museum of Kangaroo Island (AMKI) in South Australia has been revealed. The AMKI Establishment Association has announced that it intends to secure a block outside Kingscote, overlooking the Bay of Shoals.
The association aims to obtain the site within the next few months before commencing final designs. Preliminary concept designs have been completed by Kerstin Thompson Architects (KTA), with initial renders depicting a building embedded within the landscape and offering views out to the bay.
The project was first conceived in 2018 after a travelling exhibition showcasing the work of 10 Kangaroo Island artists was presented in 14 regional galleries, yet could not be displayed on the island as there was no suitable space.
Kangaroo Island Council initially declined to support the project due to concerns regarding the business case. A revised business case was submitted by the AMKI Establishment Association in 2023, which has now been endorsed by council. The business case forecast that the art museum would attract 10,000 new visitors to the island each year, providing “an added dimension to the island’s tourism offerings … increased tourist numbers, a creative catalyst for complementary, new and expanded Kangaroo Island businesses, an enriching community gathering place,” and opportunities for arts education.
Exterior render of building and landscaped garden.
Image:
Kerstin Thompson Architects
The proposal expresses a desire for the art museum to show works by local artists-in-residence, as well as from travelling exhibitions. Plans state that the design would accommodate areas for educational programs and workshops, performances and large outdoor events.
Having already raised funds for the final design phase, the AMKI committee will be seeking a combination of state and federal funding for the project, along with philanthropic financial support.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
