Housed in the architecturally renovated heritage Waterworks building in East Albury, it is a striking new addition to the city’s artistic landscape.
The Pumphouse is designed to provide the space, equipment, information and resources for artists of all types to create, craft and collaborate.
Albury Mayor, Kevin Mack, wa delighted to be opening the new facility.
“It’s wonderful to see this unique historic building refurbished and revitalised the way it has been, giving it a new life as a haven for artists and craftspeople to flourish,” he said.
“I’m looking forward to seeing The Pumphouse Makerspace realise its vision of becoming a nationally recognised facility, renowned for fostering artistic excellence and innovation.
“Albury and the surrounding region is extraordinarily lucky to have a strong and vibrant artistic community, and this facility can only enhance our offerings.”
The Pumphouse building was originally built in 1884 to make reticulated water available in central Albury.
After further extensions were completed in 1915, it supplied electricity to Albury until bulk supply from the State Electricity Commission of Victoria was established in 1926.
Construction work to transform the previously vacant building into this vibrant creative hub began in 2022.
The $3.1 million project included the remediation of the historic structure and the addition of new amenities.
This project formed part of the Creative Enterprise Project that received $1.8 million in grant funding through the Regional Cultural Fund, provided by Create NSW.
Membership of The Pumphouse is now open, providing access to a top-tier workspace, first-class equipment and skilled technicians. Members also become part of a dynamic network of artistic collaborators.
Pumphouse Coordinator, Susan Reid, said there was immense value in working alongside other creative makers and professional artists.
“By becoming a member of The Pumphouse, you will immerse yourself in an environment where passionate artists, craftspeople and professionals come together to share resources, knowledge and creativity,” she said.