recognises that individual’s interests and curiosity cross over the traditional demarcations between museums and the arts.
In each of the seven years it took to create, The Lightbox team put energy, resources and creativity into maintaining and building the community’s ownership of the project. This meant, by the time it opened, over 10,000 members of the public had given something to The Lightbox: their handprint for a public art project, treasured family possessions for the museum collection or financial contributions totalling over £150,000.
Despite having no money for an architectural competition, The Lightbox team’s determination to achieve a high quality project paid off. The Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment was persuaded to sponsor a competition and four notable jurors gave their time for free. The result was a hugely successful competition with 78 entries, including international firms. The winning designers were an internationally respected team, led by Marks Barfield Architects, creators of the London Eye.
A fresh approach has been taken to the local history displays which are based on seven compelling subjects of local and wider interest, chosen in consultation with local people. They are unapologetically modern and snappy in their graphics and language. Oral history has been used as the main method of adding layers and depth to the fascinating stories, letting the community speak for itself. As one visitor observed, “The quality of the displays makes you appreciate the value of the history and objects being exhibited."
The Lightbox team thought broadly and creatively about what would make a non-traditional museum audience feel at home at their exhibitions and events. They recognised that the kinds of places where these families feel comfortable are the visitor attraction, café or shopping centre. So it is these types of venue that The Lightbox has tried to emulate, rather than other museums.
By acknowledging how its desired audience will think about it, and working from this point, rather than by trying to educate an audience unfamiliar with museums and galleries in how to use them, The Lightbox is in no way ‘dumbing down’. It is stripping away unnecessary unfamiliarity and creating an environment, in which visitors feel safe and so can be enthralled by all the arts and museums have to offer.
Latest news:
The Lightbox and its design team, Marks Barfield Architects, have won a 2008 UK Civic Trust Award. A total of thirty Awards were announced on 12th March. The annual event, which attracted over 400 entrants, aims to encourage projects that are culturally, socially or economically beneficial, and make an outstanding contribution to the quality and appearance of the environment. The winners receive a plaque for permanent display in their buildings.
Some of your comments:
My husband and I visited The Lightbox today for the 2D-3D exhibition, which was well presented and a real pleasure to view. Whilst there, a party of school children were in the building, undertaking a variety of activities, including interviewing the viewing public (ourselves included). The children were clearly gaining a great deal from their experience. The building itself is an exciting construction, which has provoked much comment in Woking; it certainly cannot be ignored! The Lightbox and all the people who have worked so hard to create the gallery deserve to win the prize, so that they can continue to develop great opportunities for the locality.
Maggie Kwaan, Windlesham
Have just had a wonderful few hours at The Lightbox in Woking with my disabled sister. Parking and getting around the gallery could not have been easier and the lunch we had tastier. We both thoroughly enjoyed the 2D-3D exhibition we went to see, so many wonderful pieces by 'big' names... in Woking!! Then to my surprise a collection of embroidery, a hobby of mine. We are looking forward to going there again and again. I would recommend anyone to go and have a look.
Cleone Nation, Cobham
The Lightbox is introducing new cultural opportunities to the area to complement our already wonderful theatre. It is also making great strides to engage children and young people in the arts through the exhibitions and their creative workshops. It is a wonderful example of what can be achieved through local funding and enthusiastic voluntary commitment.
Terry Dell, Woking
As a frequent visitor to galleries and museums in the South East, The Lightbox stands out for me because of its stunning design and imaginative use. The light and airy building draws you in wondering what mysteries are behind the 21st century exterior. Once inside the building fulfils its promise with unexpectedly large spaces put to innovative use. The initial exhibitions and events have been exemplary both in their presentation and also in their wide appeal. A special feature is the way The Lightbox succeeds in offering something of interest for all sections of its diverse local community and all age groups.
Alan Midgley, Woking
Woking has never had an art gallery or museum until last year. The Lightbox is a wonderful new venue for arts, crafts history and related exhibitions and activities. I visited it for the fourth time on Saturday and was amazed at the number of people visiting the two current exhibitions. The paid and voluntary staff are so keen and helpful that it makes a visit even more interesting and enjoyable. I do hope that The Lightbox wins The Art Fund prize. The publicity will only encourage more people to visit it and enjoy the exhibitions and facilities.
Richard Langtree, Woking
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