Firstsite Colchester
Firstsite Colchester
Jake Davies
Firstsite is a striking modern building in Colchester that is home to a visual arts centre.
It is not without controversy as its design is considered by some residents to be out of place in a city that prides itself on being the oldest in the country.
In fact, the site it is built upon archaeological remains of the original Roman city.
Architecture
It was important that the underground Roman archaeological remains not be disturbed. The solution chosen was to "float" a concrete raft above them on the surface so as to avoid the necessity of digging foundations.
The building is roughly crescent shaped to wrap around an 18th century walled garden, A steel frame was used to avoid having internal pillars interfering with the gallery spaces, and perhaps the most contentious element is the copper-aluminium alloy cladding laid diagonally across the building.
The building gradually rises in height till it reaches a glazed portico facing north at the western end. This floods the reception area with lots of natural light. Firstsite was designed by Uruguayan architect Rafael Vinoly.
Exhibits
The only permanent exhibit in the gallery is the Berryfield Mosaic. Set under the floor below thick glass, this Roman mosaic dates from around AD200 and was from the dining room of a wealthy Roman townhouse that stood on this site.
Major exhibitions are staged usually every six months, but other events take place at various times.
There is also a large auditorium that puts on performances and shows films, and outdoor events also take place in the grounds. Firstsite maintains no collection of art of its own.
In addition, there are classrooms and studios that hold regular art classes, workshops, and art courses as well as one-off events.
A shop on the premises sells art-related gifts and products connected to thematic exhibitions, and a restaurant with an outdoor terrace that serves a range of food and drinks.
Information
Firstsite
Lewis Gardens
High Street
Colchester CO1 1JH
Tel: 01206 713700
www: firstsite.uk
Hours: Daily 10 am - 5 pm.
Firstsite is a 30 minute walk south of Colchester Station or take any of buses 8, 61 or 66. Buses 64, 64A and 65 stop at the nearest bus stop in Queen's Street.
From Colchester Town Station, Firstsite is just a few minutes on foot. It is also just a 10-minute walk from Colchester bus station on Osborne Street.
Colchester Related
Holy Trinity Church Colchester
Access - Getting to Colchester
Greater Anglia have regular trains to Colchester direct from Liverpool Street Station to Colchester. Journey time for the fastest trains is around 45 minutes.
National Express has frequent coach services from Stansted Airport to Colchester bus station and the University of Essex (Colchester).
By car from London follow the M25 motorway and then the A12.
Map
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