Phase 1 of the development of Tate Modern (designed by the Herzog & de Meuron ) includes the opening of the former power station’s spectacular Oil Tanks – enormous circular spaces over thirty metres across and seven metres high. These massive industrial chambers have lain unused since the power station was decommissioned. They are now being transformed into what promise to be some of the most exciting new spaces for art in the world. A further series of neighbouring galleries will provide a range of new spaces for works from the Tate Collection, including two raw concrete galleries and a unique steel-lined gallery. The Oil Tanks will also act as innovative social and learning spaces, as well as being equipped for a diverse programme of live performances and events, including a crush bar and full back of house facilities.
The new Oil Tank spaces will be dedicated to showing the rich variety of art in live form. The East Tank will provide the opportunity to showcase major new installations, and will be expanded and complemented by the South Tank programme that includes film, performance, sound and discussions. Providing an anchor for these activities, which have previously been presented in diverse spaces around Tate Modern, the Oil Tanks will allow the public to explore the history of these practices through the latter half of the twentieth century and see bold new work being developed by artists today. The full programme for the Oil Tanks will be announced in early 2012.