Art Fund’s Museum of the Year is one of the most coveted accolades a British museum can receive. This year, the charity has picked five museums that produced innovative and inspiring projects between autumn 2022 and winter 2023 to make up its shortlist. Here’s the lowdown on each of this year’s contenders.
First up, we have Craven Museum, which sits in Skipton town hall, North Yorkshire. In 2023, the Craven was recognised for being super kid friendly and accessible, offering free or low-cost events every day of the school holidays.
Dundee Contemporary Arts is next in the lineup. Considered ‘one of Scotland's foremost contemporary arts organisations’ it's been recognised by Art Fund for leading Art Night in Dundee, the first time the annual festival has been held outside of London.
Speaking of, the capital has two institutions in the running. The National Portrait Gallery has been chosen after its grand reopening back in summer 2023. The NPG has added 50 new pieces to its exhibit, offering a ‘more inclusive and dynamic picture of the people who have contributed to the UK’s rich history’.
Another fresh addition to London’s art scene in 2023 was the Young V&A. Art Fund nominated it for its ambitions to ‘energise young creators as well as empower everyone to promote creativity now and for the next generation’. You can find out more about both London nominees on Time Out here.
Completing the shortlist is Manchester Museum. This 130-year-old institution has gone through a major transformation recently, which involves a £15 million project called ‘hello future’ and pledges to make the museum more sustainable, welcoming and inclusive.
There you have it — the five most exciting galleries and museums in the UK right now. The winner won’t be announced for a little while. A ceremony is due to take place at the National Gallery in London, with the victor being awarded a £120,000 prize.
In the meantime, go and check them out for yourself. And while you’re at it why not stop by some of our other favourite museums in London, the best across the UK or even check out an amazing living museum?
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