Oliver Green’s review of The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge was extremely complimentary about the renovated building, new displays, visitor welcome and rebranding.
But his assertion that Canterbury needs to raise its game showed a lack of awareness of the major cultural regeneration that the city council has led over the past 10 years.
In 2011 the new Marlowe Theatre opened with a larger auditorium for the biggest and best touring shows and performances and an artists’ studio.
With the addition of the revitalised Beaney in September 2012, the cultural offer in the city is impressive and both The Beaney and the Marlowe are making a significant contribution to the local economy and to the creative economy of East Kent.
The review omitted to mention innovative aspects of the new Beaney which create a distinctive and informal visitor experience.
The contemporary artist commissions include the stunning Museumaker window designed by Laura Thomas. The integration of the Explorer Point family learning activities in many galleries is popular with visitors.
We have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from visitors to the Beaney (150,000 visits since 5 September 2012). With the opening of the new Beaney, Canterbury is now punching above its weight culturally.
Jo Jones, director of museums and galleries, Canterbury City Council
But his assertion that Canterbury needs to raise its game showed a lack of awareness of the major cultural regeneration that the city council has led over the past 10 years.
In 2011 the new Marlowe Theatre opened with a larger auditorium for the biggest and best touring shows and performances and an artists’ studio.
With the addition of the revitalised Beaney in September 2012, the cultural offer in the city is impressive and both The Beaney and the Marlowe are making a significant contribution to the local economy and to the creative economy of East Kent.
The review omitted to mention innovative aspects of the new Beaney which create a distinctive and informal visitor experience.
The contemporary artist commissions include the stunning Museumaker window designed by Laura Thomas. The integration of the Explorer Point family learning activities in many galleries is popular with visitors.
We have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from visitors to the Beaney (150,000 visits since 5 September 2012). With the opening of the new Beaney, Canterbury is now punching above its weight culturally.
Jo Jones, director of museums and galleries, Canterbury City Council
