More than 115,000 metres of packing tape will once again transform Ipswich Art Gallery into a multi-level play space for kids when TapeScape returns this December.
US artist Eric Lennartson said the unique sculpture of tunnels and slides would be twice as big as the previous iteration, which drew record crowds to the gallery in 2016.
The Ipswich Art Gallery will be closed to the public from Saturday, 16 November and reopen Monday, 2 December while the installation takes place.
Artist Eric Lennartson (pictured) said it’s the multiple layers which give TapeScape its strength.
“It’s really strong, it’s so strong that we will actually bend the metal scaffolding with the tensile strength of the tape,” Mr Lennartson said.
“It’s a very interesting space here at the Ipswich Art Gallery, we have three separate areas so we can do a unique design in each.
“We are going to have an even bigger, longer entrance tunnel than last time which is the first thing you see.
“Then when you get to the end of the tunnel you can choose a path to go left or right.
“The left will be smaller in scale but still big on fun.
“If you go to the right you will end up in a maze of tunnels that go up, down, and work like a labyrinth.
“It does end with a fun slide to come out.”
There is also going to be an access area for people who are unable to go into the tunnels.
Mr Lennartson has created similar exhibitions all over the world but says the Ipswich Art Gallery had an incredible team to work with.
“They are probably the greatest team of installers of anyone that I have worked with in the world,” he said.
A team of gallery staff will build the large TapeScape as a centrepiece to the overall Construction Site Summer Fun which will take over the whole of the gallery over the school holidays.
There is hands-on fun planned for little architects and engineers of all ages.
Each area of the gallery will have a different instillation designed to immerse visitors in a multi-sensory STEM environment.
Construction Site Building Blocks uses giant foam blocks to build a castle, skyscraper or whatever can be imagined.
Blue Blocks are a small scale build using Blue Block bricks, cogs and cylinders to create a unique invention.
The popular Ball run is also back using tubes and recycled materials to send a ball rolling on its way.
The Ipswich Art Gallery at d’Arcy Doyle Place will be open daily from 10am until 5pm from Monday, 2 December.
The gallery will be closed from Christmas Day, 25 December 2019 until 1 January, 2020. It will reopen on Thursday, 2 January.
TapeScape will run until Sunday, 16 February 2020.
Adults are at children’s prices – $7 per person.
A family pass for $20 admits up to 4 people.
Children under two years are free.
Socks must be worn on TapeScape. You may bring your own or buy specially designed TapeScape socks at the gallery for $3 a pair which will be yours to keep.
