You couldn’t find a more perfect setting for the new Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima than overlooking our gorgeous Lake Macquarie. The Multi-Arts Pavilion has been designed to provide a contemporary space for art exhibitions as well as a performance space. The pavilion offers us the opportunity to experience art in a variety of ways. The MAP mima is located in Speers Point Park past the children’s play park along the main promenade.
Why mima?
Did you know that mima is an Awabakal word meaning ‘cause to stay’? This space has been designed with the intention that it becomes a site for conscious intermingling of ancient and emerging cultural expressions. The words ‘mi’ and ‘ma’ in Japanese mean ‘beautiful space’ summing up the building in its setting perfectly.
Building design
The building was designed by Samantha Bailey, a University of Newcastle undergraduate in architecture. It has a central gallery known as ‘The Cube’. This area allows for 360-degree immersive art to be presented. Within this area, there’s a large hydraulic awning that can be opened to create a stage. Seating can be placed outside to allow for live performances. It’s planned that this space will accommodate markets, workshops, music performances, theatre programs, and screenings.
The other distinctive space inside is a trapezoidal projection screen in an area of the building known as ‘The Node’. From inside you gaze at a perfectly framed view over the lake during the daytime. Once the sun sets this area comes to life. Currently featuring a video work commissioned for the opening of the MAP mima this installation is viewable after dark.
Big plans for family fun
With big plans for the future, MAP mima will become a great place for families to visit. Starting in February 2022, MAP play will offer parents or carers and children aged under 5’s stories and activities. Two sessions are planned for the last Tuesday of every month. One starts at 10 am and the other at 11:15 am. To book FREE tickets to attend click here Creative Play for Under 5’s Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite
Now that MAP mima has opened, there are more plans for families in the future and we will let you know as these are confirmed. Watch this space!
Grab a coffee!
Inside the MAP mima is Harry and Lola’s Cafe. The perfect place to enjoy breathtaking views of the lake on the deck while enjoying a coffee and something to eat. You can choose to dine in or takeaway. With a selection of food and drinks, you’ll be sure to find something delicious.
Opening times and what’s on
Currently open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday you need tickets to visit. These tickets allow you a 30-minute timed slot. Tickets are free of charge. During the holiday opening extends to include Wednesday and Thursday.
If you want to know what events are planned click the link below. This will allow you to stay up to date with all the exciting shows, performances, exhibitions and screenings the MAP mima has to offer. To make a booking to visit the pavilion or an upcoming show click here: Lake Macquarie Arts
