2020 - Joint Winners
In a unique edition of the prize, all five finalists were named Art Fund Museum of the Year in 2020.
Museums faced the challenges of Covid-19
The Covid-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill, and all five of our Museum of the Year finalists found creative and inspirational ways to stay connected with their communities during this time.
Jenny Waldman, director of Art Fund
"UK museums can help rebuild our communities and confidence as we emerge from the virus. Not only do we need sustained investment from government, but we encourage everyone to go and explore their local museum."
Meet the winners (2020) by Northern TownArt Fund
Everyone is a winner!
From a converted nuclear bunker in a remote village to a high-tech UK national museum, the five joint winners these are the Art Fund Museum of the Year 2020 award.
Aberdeen Art Gallery (2020) by Marc AtkinsArt Fund
Aberdeen Art Gallery
Aberdeen Art Gallery was recognised for the beautiful restoration of its 135-year-old building, and its commitment to involving the people of Aberdeen in its future.
Gairloch Museum (2020) by Marc AtkinsArt Fund
Gairloch Museum
The judges were captivated by the story of the rebirth of this incredibly special museum, nestled on the remote north-west coast of Scotland. A tale of people power, determination and local pride.
Science Museum (2020) by Marc AtkinsArt Fund
The Science Museum
The judges recognised how this well-known and much-respected museum was evolving its spaces and its relationship with visitors and local communities.
South London Gallery (2020) by Marc AtkinsArt Fund
South London Gallery
For more than 125 years, South London Gallery has stayed true to its aim, ‘to bring art to the people of south London’ - and the judges celebrated the way it had grown and evolved in response to the needs of artists and visitors.
Towner Eastbourne (2020) by Marc AtkinsArt Fund
Towner Eastbourne
The judges hugely admired Towner Eastbourne’s commitment to transforming lives through art and promoting the work of under-represented artists.
Photograph: Marc Atkins, Pari Naderi and Jaine Airey
Production: Northern Town
