Ten million and counting: Baltic marks major milestone
Northumberland couple help Baltic celebrate landmark moment as the Gateshead looks ahead to new exhibitions and more community events.
Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art in Gateshead has reached a major milestone, welcoming its 10 millionth visitor since opening in 2002.
Marie and David Thompson from Bedlington became the official milestone guests on April 9, greeted by Baltic director Sarah Munro with flowers, gifts, and a celebratory meal at the venue’s rooftop restaurant, Six.
The couple, long-time Baltic visitors, were given an exclusive preview of the upcoming Remember, Somewhere exhibition by twin sisters Laura and Rachel Lancaster (read David Whetstone’s preview), which opens to the public tomorrow (April 12).
Opened in a converted flour mill on the Gateshead Quayside, Baltic has played a major role in the region’s cultural revival. Its four galleries an 2,600 square metres of art space, make it one of Europe’s largest dedicated art galleries.
Since 2002, it has hosted more than 300 exhibitions from artists across 78 countries, including major events like the Turner Prize in 2011 - the first time the award was held outside London.
Sarah Munro said the milestone reflects Baltic’s strong connection with local communities, adding: “It’s a huge honour to welcome so many visitors and to present great art from around the world right here in the North East.”
Marie and David have their own deep ties to the gallery. Their daughter studied fine art and was married at Baltic - just before the second COVID-19 lockdown in November 2020. “We’ve got such lovely memories of this place,” said Marie. “We feel so lucky to have it on our doorstep.”
The gallery continues to be the most visited free attraction in the North East and has received numerous awards for its architecture, programming, and inclusive work, including Gallery of Sanctuary status in 2021.