Southwark Council have approved plans for the first major redevelopment at London’s Dulwich Picture Gallery in 25 years. The exciting ‘Open Art’ project will encourage children’s love for art through a new biodiverse sculpture garden and sustainable spaces for schools and family activities.

“The vision for Open Art is grounded in the principles of innovation and inclusion which have defined the gallery since we first opened,” explained Jennifer Scott, the gallery’s director.

Award-winning architects Carmody Groarke have designed a new creative building and eco-friendly pavilion extension for the existing gallery cottage. These buildings will host art sessions for children, a school lunch area, family café, and a shop.

The southern portion of the site, which is currently inaccessible, will be transformed by the renowned landscape artist Kim Wilkie into an “art forest”. Around 150 trees and wildflowers will be planted, creating a vibrant backdrop for a free outdoor sculpture gallery called Lovington Meadow. Funded by the Lovington Foundation, the site will also host a new biennial sculpture competition.

“This exciting project will transform our green spaces into London’s only gallery-based sculpture garden,” revealed Scott, “providing new creative experiences for everyone, and inspiring the artists of the future.”

Dulwich gallery’s existing gardens will also be spruced up during the renovations. There are plans to acquire the sculpture ‘Bronze Oak Grove’ by the artist duo Rob and Nick Carter, which is currently displayed outside the gallery, to “set the tone for the sculpture garden.” A series of interactive sculptures will be added too.

The spectacular three-acre redevelopment is estimated to cost £4.6 million. According to a statement, the gallery has already submitted applications to trusts and foundations to fundraise for the budget, as well as seeking public donations.

Construction is due to start later this year and scheduled for completion by early 2025. By 2035, the gallery anticipates that visitor numbers will have doubled as a result of the upgrades.