The owner of the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in Hobart, Tasmania revealed more details about the proposed expansion of the property. According to David Walsh, the plan is likely to cost more than the A$75 million he spent on MONA’s construction.
Among other things, Mr. Walsh plans to add a casino at the property and it would aim at attracting high rollers from the Asia-Pacific region. In July, it was announced that MONA and gambling operator Federal Group had agreed on a joint project for the establishment of a gambling venue. Two months later, however, Mr. Walsh revealed that he had rejected the deal.
Here it is important to note that the Federal Group holds the exclusive rights to manage poker machines and gambling venues in Tasmania up until 2023. The proposed deal for the addition of a casino at MONA included a provision under which the gambling company was to have its license extended beyond 2023.
Apart from the proposed gambling venue for wealthy players, Mr. Walsh pointed out that the expansion would include the addition of a 160-room hotel that would be called HOtelMOna. The venue would also house food and beverage and retail options, a spa, a function center, and a larger library. MONA’s owner also plans the launch of a Venice-style ferry for the quick transportation of visitors to and from the hotel. A bar and a tapas restaurant separate from the hotel are also to be added.
Mr. Walsh also revealed plans for the extension of the museum’s gallery so that it houses four works of light by James Turrell. The gallery would extend 20 meters above the Derwent River once the project is completed. A dead-end tunnel towards the winery is also to be extended in order to include even more gallery space as well as offices.
MONA’s owner said that the expansion would result in a much bigger building. Mr. Walsh further noted that the whole project would probably cost at least as much as he had originally paid for the construction of the museum.
Commenting on the casino, the museum’s owner stated that the other extension projects were not solely dependent upon its establishment. Yet, he pointed out that the gambling venue would make it easier “to pay for all this.”
A self-funded establishment, MONA is believed to have contributed significantly to the revitalization of Tasmania and its tourism. However, Mr. Walsh told local media that the museum has been losing A$10 million every year.
