Switzerland-based art gallery Hauser & Wirth has announced it will expand operations to derelict Durslade Farm in Somerset, UK come 2014.

The gallery, which was founded in Zurich in 1992 by Iwan and Manuela Wirth and Ursula Hauser, represents emerging and established contemporary artists including Paul McCarthy, Roni Horn and Mary Heilmann.

The Hauser & Wirth Somerset website states the gallery, which is expected to attract 40,000 visitors a year, will be a multi-purpose venue which will introduce contemporary art to new audiences and be a space for events.

Durslade Farm, nestled within 100 acres of fields and woodland, is near the town of Brunton and consists of Grade II-listed farm buildings including a farmhouse, stables, cow sheds, piggery, threshing barn and other outbuildings.

When purchased by Hauser & Wirth about three years ago the heritage buildings had been empty for a number of years and were left in a state of disrepair.

South Somerset District Council granted Listed Building consent for the project in November and planning permission this month.

Hauser & Wirth already has galleries in Zurich, London and New York.

An exhibition programme for the Somerset location will be announced closer to the opening of the gallery.

Image: Hauser & Wirth