The Whitechapel’s Arts and Crafts building and its next-door neighbor, a quirky 1892 structure, are being joined as part of a $20 million renovation and expansion.

The Whitechapel was a short bus ride away from my apartment in London back when I was a student there and I’ll admit right now that I never made the trip (it was on the list a number of times, but…. I just didn’t get around to it).You should check out the Whitechapel publications though - there are some really fantastic additions to anyone’s library there.

Although capital improvents and expansions such as these are going to be slowing down, it is still exciting to read about the trail of cultural work still happening from the earlier art boom on this decade.

I wonder what sorts of conversations were had in the old building @ the Whitechapel surrounding the expansion and renovation: how would it affect their mission? How would they remain true to their roots while also broadening their audiences? What is the right balance of exhibition and historical archives? Should they start a permanent collection? How will they find their voice in a very crowded arts community?

Oh to be a fly on the wall during those conversations……