The Hepworth

Yorkshire’s inspiring new art gallery, The Hepworth, celebrating the area’s unique artistic legacy and exploring the work of major contemporary artists. Designed by David Chipperfield Architects, it has ten gallery spaces making this one of the UK’s largest purpose-built galleries outside London.

Opening in 2011 to house Wakefield’s art collection and provide a legacy for Barbra Hepworth in her city of birth.

The original Wakefield Art Gallery was established in 1934 and became one of the most forward-thinking galleries of its time, supporting artists including Hepworth and Henry Moore early in their careers. With gifts from local industrialists, the gallery built a collection of works by some of the most significant and avant-garde British artists of the 20th century. Supporting contemporary artists and developing the collection for future generations is something that the gallery is committed to.

In 1996 Wakefield Council started to promote the benefits of investing in a new purpose-built art gallery, which would act as a catalyst for wider regeneration, attract tourism and inward investment and increase local pride.