2021 - Firstsite
Winner of Art Fund Museum of the Year 2021, Firstsite in Colchester, Essex, provided a lifeline for the community during the pandemic.
Image of Firsite CGI render (2006) by Rafael Viñoly Architects, Hayes DavidsonArt Fund
Originally named Colchester and District Visual Arts Trust, the organisation was renamed Firstsite, as it would be 'the first place for new encounters with contemporary art'.
Firstsite moved to its new home in September 2011, and has since presented world-class exhibitions.
Resilience and Creativity
Firstsite presents powerful and engaged contemporary art, housed in a gallery that gives space to everyone.
Art Fund presents Firstsite Museum (2021-09-21) by Art FundArt Fund
Photograph of Firstsite Exterior (2021) by Marc AtkinsArt Fund
Making a difference
During the first Covid-19 lockdown, Firstsite inspired everyone to turn their windows into a nationwide gallery, and provided free meals for kids in in the school holidays.
Photograph of Sally, Director of Firstite (2021) by Marc AtkinsArt Fund
Sally Shaw, director of Firstsite
"We want to inspire and make a positive difference to people’s lives, and this award shows we are on the right track."
Jenny Waldman, director of Art Fund
"At their core is powerful, engaged contemporary art, housed in a gallery that gives space for everyone, from artists to NHS staff to local families and refugee groups."
Colchester
The oldest recorded town in Britain provides the backdrop to Firstsite's contemporary art exhibitions, which reflect on the town's rich history and cultural heritage.
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Firstsite were the winner but there were four other amazing museums on this year's shortlist...
Objects in Timespan Helmsdale (2021) by Marc AtkinsArt Fund
Timespan, Helmsdale Scotland
Timespan has a diverse range of exhibitions and events, which cover
everything from contemporary art to traditional crafts. The building that now houses the museum was originally a tweed mill, which operated in Helmsdale from the late 18th century until the 1960s.
Thackray Museum of Medicine Interior (2021) by Marc AtkinsArt Fund
The Thackeray Museum of Medicine, Leeds
Thackray Museum of Medicine features rare medical artefacts,
including an original 19th-century operating table and Victorian-era surgical instruments. Discover the fascinating evolution of medicine and healthcare through interactive exhibits and educational programmes.
Photograph of Experience Barnsely Interior (2021) by Marc AtkinsArt Fund
Experience Barnsley, Barnsley
Experience Barnsley is a social history museum that showcases the
town's heritage through interactive exhibits, artefacts and even a reconstructed coal mine. Notable items include a medieval sword and a 17th-century trade token.
Photograph of CCA Installation (2021) by Marc AtkinsArt Fund
Centre for Contemporary Art Derry, Londonderry
Housed in a former shirt factory that was once the largest employer in the city, the Centre for Contemporary Art is a a vibrant cultural centre, hosting exhibitions, events and workshops that celebrate the area's rich artistic heritage.
Photographer: Marc Atkins
Production Partner: Chocolate Films
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