Brisbane’s impressive Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) was built at a cost of around $290M – i.e. over $60 for every Queenslander – so it is important to consider its role in our community and who it is targeted at. Given its high cost, for the sake of equity, one hopes that GoMA strives to serve as many Queenslanders as possible, and not just the arts community. The large crowds at GoMA’s recent 21st century exhibition, including many young families attracted by the slippery slides and the opportunity to help build a 21st century Lego city, suggest that GoMA is indeed striving for broad appeal.

The issues of the design and intended audience of a 21st century art museum, such as GoMA, are to be discussed at an event this Thursday night at GoMA (see below). Judging by the previous GoMA Talks event on the 21st century city, which was held two weeks ago, this week’s event is likely to be interesting and thought-provoking.

From the GoMA website:

GoMA Talks 21st Century

17 March 2011 | GoMA TALKS Design | What does a 21st Century art museum look like and who is it for? Hosted by Janne Ryan, Producer, By Design | 6.15 for 6.30pm | GoMA

Engage in the issues that defined the first decade of the 21st Century during this entertaining fortnightly series of free evening discussions at GoMA as part of the ’21st Century: Art in the First Decade’ exhibition. Taking a panel discussion format, favourite presenters from ABC Radio National will host discussions with visiting guests from a range of fields.

Free. No bookings required, however seating is limited. Refreshments available to purchase from 5.30pm at the Meme Lounge, Level 1 GoMA. View live webcasts of GoMA Talks at www.21Cblog.com and tweet your questions to the panel using hash tag #GoMAtalks.