During this session, participants were provided with the background and timeline of the project to date.

The extension is being funded by the NSW government after Orange Regional Gallery was granted $4,052,990 through the first round of the Regional Cultural Fund in August, 2018.

Under the agreement, the gallery will extend the existing facility by 1070 square metres incorporating a large new gallery exhibition space, new storage and conservation areas and a 77-seater theatrette.

The history and future direction of the gallery were also summarised along three key themes: collections, exhibitions and community programs.

The main part of the evening was presented by Sam Marshall, lead architect on the project from Sydney firm Architect Marshall, best known for their work on the recently completed Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney.

Sam guided the community through 2D plans and a 3D virtual flythrough of the proposed extension. These renderings provided a first exciting glimpse of what the extension will be like.

MAP: Where is Orange Regional Gallery ...

It was great to hear the discussion and suggestions that were generated as we moved through the designs, zone by zone.

To summarise, the project will see a refurbished and welcoming foyer, a designated theatrette with 77 seats with a lobby, a large new gallery space with moveable walls and ambient natural light (fully controllable), and a substantial back-of-house storage and conservation area.

This will provide ample space for the collection to grow and be accessible into the future.

The entire new facility will be climate-controlled to meet international standards in object care. There will also be large windows with views out to the park.

The purpose of the evening was to provide the community with an update on the work we've been doing with Architect Marshall and to listen to comments and suggestions which can inform the more detailed designs to come.

If you weren't able to attend, you can still participate in the discussion. Please visit Orange City Council's 'Your Say' portal at www.yoursay.orange.nsw.gov.au/orange-regional-gallery-extension where you can find out more, view plans and videos, participate in a survey and leave a comment.