The award was announced on 30 June at a reception at the Royal Institute of British Architects in London by Kirsty Young, Chairman of the Art Fund Prize Judges. Of the winner Kirsty Young, said:
“Here is a museum that shows how much can be achieved, and one that is building a lasting legacy. We were impressed by the interactive learning spaces on each level that are filled with objects which visitors are encouraged to touch and explore, and by how the museum’s commitment to reaching all parts of its community is reflected in the number and diversity of its visitors. The transformed Ulster Museum is an emblem of the confidence and cultural rejuvenation of Northern Ireland.”
Tim Cooke, Director of National Museums Northern Ireland, said,
"We are delighted on Northern Ireland’s behalf. This is the first time in Northern Ireland’s history that a prestigious cultural prize of this nature has been awarded to an institution in the region. This prize will encourage us as we endeavour to play a meaningful role at the heart of our changing society."
The Ulster Museum is one of four museums administered by National Museums Northern Ireland. Its £17.8 million project, Opening up the Ulster Museum, completed in October 2009, represents the Museum’s first substantial development in almost 40 years. It has radically reconfigured the Museum’s listed building, offering a series of new galleries including interactive Learning Zones, a new Applied Art Gallery and state-of-the-art, 3 storey-high Window on Our World display. Since its redevelopment, the Ulster Museum has become Northern Ireland’s busiest visitor attraction. |
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