The prestigious Museum of the Year prize, awarded by Art Fund, highlights the best modern museums in the UK, showcasing institutions that enrich public understanding through art and history. This year, five museums are shortlisted for the £120,000 award, including Cambridge’s Fitzwilliam Museum, The Box in Plymouth, and the newly opened V&A East Storehouse in London, reports BritPanorama.
The contenders represent a diverse range of experiences and narratives. The Fitzwilliam Museum, founded in the 19th century, offers an extensive collection, while The Box, which opened in 2020, focuses on the local history of Plymouth. The V&A East Storehouse, which welcomed visitors last year, seeks to redefine the museum experience with its unique features.
Prominent figures from various fields have endorsed their favourite institutions ahead of the announcement on 25 June. Despite the competition, the lottery of public engagement ensures that all shortlisted museums benefit from increased attention and visitation, turning the award into a shared victory for art and culture enthusiasts.
Mary Beard, historian and broadcaster
The Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge
Mary Beard, a noted figure in academia, advocates for the Fitzwilliam Museum, her local institution for nearly 50 years. “It’s been my local museum for as long as I’ve lived in Cambridge,” she reflects, highlighting its extraordinary diversity. Beard acknowledges the museum’s commitment to not only showcasing art but also encouraging intellectual engagement with the past. She describes it as “an intellectual treasure house,” underscoring its role in fostering curiosity and critical thought among visitors.
Michael Palin, travel presenter, writer, co-founder of Monty Python
The National Gallery, London
Michael Palin shares his connection to the National Gallery, noting a shift in his perception over the decades. Initially viewing it as a cultural obligation, he now treasures the gallery as a source of inspiration. His frequent visits allow him to appreciate the rich tapestry of art history, engaging with works that highlight the evolution of representation and understanding of humanity in painting.
Osman Yousefzada, interdisciplinary artist and writer
The Box, Plymouth
Interdisciplinary artist Osman Yousefzada references The Box as a space that connects local and global histories. His installation exploring colonial shipping routes and undersea data cables reflects this mission. He illustrates the museum’s flexible atmosphere, praising the leadership of Victoria Pomery, who fosters an open and collaborative environment, encouraging innovative artistic expressions.
Amber Butchart, fashion and textile historian
Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery
Amber Butchart values the Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery for its hands-on approach to understanding history. Growing up near the site, she emphasizes its significance in showcasing local craft and textile history, particularly through its collections. The museum serves as a portal to the past, demonstrating how heritage informs contemporary practices and values.
Dina Asher-Smith, Olympic sprinter
V&A East Storehouse, London
Dina Asher-Smith expresses admiration for the V&A East Storehouse, particularly its innovative approach to exhibiting collections. She recalls her curiosity upon first seeing the building from the Olympic Park and highlights the unique visitor experience in which objects can be tailored to preferences. The presence of actual rooms and significant architectural elements in the museum’s design provides a distinctive perspective that enhances engagement with contemporary art and design.
Art Fund’s Museum of the Year Award is set to be announced on 25 June, marking a significant date for the participating institutions and the public alike.
