DCMS/Wolfson Museums and Galleries Improvement Fund launch new round of funding
Museums and galleries across England are being encouraged to apply for a share of £4 million of new funding to improve displays, protect collections and make exhibitions more accessible to visitors.
The cash boost has been added to the joint DCMS/Wolfson Fund as the fund marks 20 years of the two organisations working together to support the arts and culture.
Both DCMS and the Wolfson Foundation will contribute an extra £2 million through their partnership as the government ramps up its plans to level up access to the arts and culture by improving collections and exhibitions in museums and galleries across the country.
Over the last 20 years the fund has awarded £48 million to over 400 projects at museums and galleries, with organisations including Manchester Museum and the Oriental Museum in Durham receiving grants to improve entrances and display exhibits in accessible ways.
Arts Minister Lord Parkinson of Whitley Bay said:
Chief executive of the Wolfson Foundation, Paul Ramsbottom said:
Commissioner for Cultural Recovery & Renewal, Lord Mendoza said:
The partnership has led to fascinating collections previously not on display being shown. Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery in Carlisle recently received £252,500 to conserve and display 40 outfits for the first time as part of a fashion exhibition looking at styles from the 18th century.
The fund has acted as a catalyst to encourage people to learn about their local history. In 2005, Strangers’ Hall in Norwich received £31,000 to develop an interactive exhibition for school children on the Tudors. Thanks to its success, the museum secured further funding which led to it being able to extend its opening hours and increase visitor numbers.
Reyahn King, Chief Executive, York Museums Trust said:
Sarah Newman, Manager, Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum, said:
Kat Nilsson, Director of Museums & Cultural Programmes, UCL said:
Professor Stephen Toope, Vice-Chancellor, University Of Cambridge said:
ENDS
Notes to Editors