While Turner was producing realistic work for public consumption he was also experimenting with the abstract. This fascinating duality has proved to be an inspiration and starting point for the conceptual development of the project. With Turner’s experimental work, the effects —the lack of conven- tional borders between the edges and horizons, the resultant blurring of the edges, the ambiguous nature of the object and the use of bold colours — have been embraced and developed as a bold and abstract Gallery Building. This is in direct contrast to the public Pier Building, whose form is more conventional and recognisable. The urban design concept and the developed design for the Turner Centre are firmly rooted in the principles and objectives as set out in the Kent Guide to Sustainable Development.They issues raised have formed a constant point of reference against which the proposals have been evaluated and developed. The experience of the Turner Centre begins the moment you first catch sight of the building.The prominent location and distinct form will attract interest and drawthe visitor to the site. Once adjacent to Droit House the entry sequence both along the pier and up into the buildings is an event.While it may not be necessary for the visitors to strap themselves to the front of a boat (as Turner) to experience the power and force of the natural elements the one and a half-minute walk up the external ramp will give a good introduction.The slow gradual climb arrives at an external lobby 3.5m above Pier level.
Key functions within the Turner Centre are split into two distinct groups:
The Private
The Foyer/ The Galleries/ Auditorium/ Education Outreach The Restaurant/ Bookshop/ Resident Artist/
The Public
Administration/ Delivery Bay
To reflect this notion the building is itself split into two independent structures.The access ramp leads the visitor between the buildings to a common external lobby from which the galleries, the restaurant and the bookshop can be accessed.
from top: J M Turner, Calais Pier, 1803 Margate Station proposed Turner Centre, gallery, walk and pier
ON SITE review 6: BEAUTY
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