Situation
The Huon Valley Arts and Culture Committee agreed that they needed a mobile gallery – allowing Huon Valley Council to take art to local communities, rather than making people drive to Hobart to see exhibitions. As they fleshed out the idea, using a shipping container seemed to be the best option. After talking to various companies, Royal Wolf stood out as the obvious choice to supply the ‘Artbox’.
Needs of the client
- Extremely professional look and finishes
- Large windows for viewing
- Robust and strong construction for regular transportation
- High quality lighting
- Functional in remote areas
- Guidance and general ideation, as a first-time client
Solution
“Royal Wolf stood out due to their enthusiasm, ideas and communication,” says Miranda Wageman, Arts and Culture Officer with Huon Valley Council. “We had lots of conversations and they had so many suggestions – we’d never done anything like this before.”
One of Royal Wolf’s ideas was to install solar panels on the roof, allowing the Artbox to be lit day and night, even in remote areas.
Included with the Artbox were:
- A swivel light system for bespoke lighting solutions
- Solar panels for 24-hour lighting in remote areas
- Reinforced glass panels for safe transportation
- Sleek charcoal, white and wood styling
- A professional artwork hanging solution
Outcome
The Artbox opened on Saturday, 10th October 2020 with an exhibition of native animals, created by ceramicist Wendy Edwards.
“People love it - we’ve had fabulous feedback,” says Miranda. “It’s a beautiful and quirky collection and there are always people looking at it – families, and the young and old.”
Currently in Huonville, the Artbox will head to Geeveston next, and the Huon Valley Council hopes to move it at least six times a year.
“Royal Wolf have been fantastic,” adds Miranda. “They’ve gone above and beyond to find a solution for us.”
