LKBAC functional brief

Hawkridge Entertainment Services were engaged by Blacktown City Council to assist in the analysis of appropriate locations for the Leo Kelly Blacktown Arts Centre (LKBAC) and the development of the LKBAC functional brief for the project. This also included baseline research and gap analysis.

Hawkridge Entertainment Services initially provided analysis of a vertical versus a horizontal building, specifically outlining the benefits and constraints of each given the available locations. This included outlines key gaps and constraints affecting the successful operation of Blacktown Arts. The analysis identified challenges in staffing, funding, programming, venue suitability, maintenance, and operational performance. Addressing these required a number of different areas including strategic planning, increased staffing, diversified revenue streams, improved venue maintenance, and structured operational management. While some constraints are fixed, others can be mitigated through investment and strategic planning.

Hawkridge Entertainment Services undertook baseline research and gap analysis to assist in the development of the cultural infrastructure. This included:

Undertake research to understand the key local and state policies and strategies which identify the aims, objectives and targets for arts and cultural centers into the future.
Review of key national strategies and policies, including but not limited to, the National Cultural Policy—Revive: a place for every story, a story for every place.
Identification of existing service offerings in Blacktown City and LGA
Identification of existing competitors
Outline existing arts and culture programs and service offerings

LKBAC Functional Brief

In consultation with Council subject matter experts and works completed in the previous phases. HES also developed Function Brief Requirements which identify what activities are proposed to be accommodated including:

Create: such as space for workshops / classes to teach / create art /cultural pieces (artwork different mediums, digital, dance classes, music classes, rehearsals / studios)
Promote: opportunities to increase knowledge of / interest and involvement in art & culture endeavors.
Display: opportunities to exhibit art displays walls / sculptures /digital art.
Experience: events for the public to experience art / culture pieces (display, immerse, cultural events, performance – dance, music, etc.)
Contribute
Store: climate-controlled collection facilities and storage for the City’s cultural collection

Further, also identify spatial & functional requirements for the following:

Reflection and exchange spaces
workshops and making
Exhibition spaces
Rehearsal & Performance space including live music Screen and digital facilities
Cultural collection facilities

How we help

Hawkridge Entertainment Services provides a range of services for organisations including strategic analysis, feasibility development and business case writing. We are experts in the development of cultural infrastructure. Some of our recent projects are:

We deliver successful outcomes by finding solutions to complex issues. We listen to stakeholders and complete tasks in the timeframes required.

Other similar projects completed by Hawkridge Entertainment Services are available here.