JAILHOUSE rock

Two centuries after convicts first chiselled the sandstone to build the Old Darlinghurst Gaol, alterations will ensure the heritage-listed edifice continues to nurture generations of artists at the resident National Art School.

- KRISTINA SOLJO

WHAT INITIALLY APPEALED ABOUT THE SITE? Steven Alderton: This is a truly remarkable place a thriving art school in an old exgaol in the middle of Sydney's Darlinghurst.

You can feel the layered history of the prison and the school, as the forebears of Australian art trained here where once prisoners stood. Today, we are washed over by the energetic enthusiasm of the next generation of artists and art leaders as they train to shape the future of Australian art and beyond. WHAT DID THE ALTERATIONS ENTAIL? Construction on the site began just over 200 years ago in 1822 with many alterations as a gaol, stockade, internment camp, technical college and art school. Our recent alterations have upgraded the studios, the Cell Block Theatre, stoneworks and landscaping.

WHAT WAS THE CONCEPT FOR THE SPACE? To support our vision as the leading art school in the Asia-Pacific, to create the space for our studio-based teaching model and open the site for everyone to enjoy. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT WORKING HERE? That in any given day over 500 artists are making art here.