2013 - William Morris Gallery
Winner of Art Fund Museum of the Year 2013, read more about how the William Morris Gallery helps to bring art to all.
Judges at the WM Gallery (2013) by Art FundArt Fund
The renovation of the William Morris Gallery was a major factor in its winning the 2013 award. The judges praised the gallery's innovative approach to displaying William Morris's work, including a focus on the social context in which he worked.
Revolutionary
William Morris Gallery's emphasis on engaging the local community also played a key role in its success. The gallery worked with local schools, community groups and artists to create a diverse range of events and activities, from art classes to poetry readings to music concerts.
Award Acceptance (2013) by Simon RawlesArt Fund
Rowan Bain, principal curator, William Morris Gallery
"Winning the award was a tribute to the hard work of the museum staff, supporters and community. The renovation had transformed the gallery into a world-class destination while also engaging local people."
Ian Hislop, presenter
"The new galleries are beautifully designed and the collection is displayed with imagination and flair. The commitment to engaging with its local community impressed us and it's a shining example of what a museum can achieve."
Walthamstow, London
This is the same building where William Morris himself lived as a teenager. It is surrounded by Lloyd Park and is easily accessible by public transport.
Get visiting benefits with the National Art Pass
William Morris Gallery was the winner, but there were nine other amazing museums on this year's shortlist…
Floating head installation at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum (2013) by Art FundArt Fund
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Glasgow
The Kelvingrove was celebrated for its stunning architecture, diverse collections and innovative programming, which includes exhibitions, events and workshops for all ages.
Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art (2013) by Art FundArt Fund
Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art
BALTIC hosted the UK's largest ever exhibition of the work of Yoko Ono, featuring installations, performances and interactive artworks. The exhibition attracted more than 90,000 visitors and helped to establish BALTIC as one of the UK's leading contemporary art institutions.
Exterior of The Hepworth Wakefield (2017) by Marc AtkinsArt Fund
The Hepworth Wakefield
A programme called 'Hepworth in Hand' offered art workshops and activities for people with disabilities and mental health conditions. The programme was developed in partnership with local charities and community groups and was designed to make the museum more accessible.
Judges at the Dulwich Picture Gallery (2013) by Art FundArt Fund
Dulwich Picture Gallery, London
The gallery had launched the 'Museum of the Mind' project, which explored the relationship between art and mental health. The project was developed in partnership with local mental health charities and was widely praised for its originality and impact.
Preston Hall Museum and Park (2013) by Art FundArt Fund
Preston Hall Museum and Park, Stockton-on-Tees
A major renovation and restoration project saw the museum's historic buildings and gardens restored to their former glory. The museum also launched a range of new exhibitions and events that celebrated the history and heritage of the local area.
Judges at Horniman (2013) by Art FundArt Fund
Horniman Museum and Gardens
The museum was noted for its new programme of outdoor events and activities, including concerts, films and performances, as well as a major exhibition on the history of the Olympics.
The Beaney Institute (2013) by Art FundArt Fund
The Beaney Institute
The 'Big Draw' programme invited people of all ages and backgrounds to participate in a range of drawing workshops and activities. The museum also hosted a number of exhibitions and events that explored the history and culture of the local area.
Judges at the Narberth Museum (2013) by Art FundArt Fund
Narberth Museum, Pembrokeshire
The museum hosted a number of educational programmes and events, including workshops on traditional crafts and skills, which proved popular with visitors of all ages.
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (2013) by Art FundArt Fund
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
The judges were impressed by the museum's innovative exhibitions and outreach programmes, which engaged audiences of all ages and backgrounds and showcased the diversity of human cultures across the world.
Photography: Simon Rawles, Nick Bishop, Jonty Wilde and Marc Atkins
