2019 - St Fagans National Museum of History
Winner of Art Fund Museum of the Year 2019, read more about how St Fagans collaborates with the local community.
St. Fagan's National History Museum (2019) by Marc AtkinsArt Fund
The museum worked with members of the local community to create exhibits and projects reflecting their diverse cultural heritage, including a new gallery dedicated to the Welsh language and identity.
Transforming St Fagans
Featuring over 50 historic buildings set in 100 acres of parkland, as well as new galleries, a craft centre and education spaces, St Fagans welcomed 3 million visitors during its redevelopment.
Stephen Deuchar, director of Art Fund from 2010 to 2020
“St Fagans is a monument to modern museum democracy, it has been transformed through a major development project involving the direct participation of hundreds of thousands of visitors and volunteers, putting the arts of making and building into fresh contexts.”
St Fagans National Museum of History film (2019) by Northern TownArt Fund
Workshop (2019) by Marc AtkinsArt Fund
Telling the story of Wales
St Fagans' commitment to authenticity and cultural heritage has made it one of the most popular and beloved museums in Wales.
The historic buildings have been painstakingly preserved and restored to reflect their original context.
David Anderson, former director general of NMW
"This is a win for the people of Wales, who came together to create this remarkable museum, and for the power of museums to inspire, educate, and connect us all."
St Fagans Castle
St Fagans National Museum of History is located in the grounds of St Fagans Castle, which dates back to the 16th century and is one of the finest examples of Elizabethan architecture in Wales.
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St Fagans National Museum of History was the winner, but there were four other amazing museums on this year's shortlist…
Art Fund launches Museum of the Year (2019) by Northern TownArt Fund
Nottingham Contemporary (2019) by Marc AtkinsArt Fund
Nottingham Contemporary
Housed in an award-winning building designed by architects Caruso St John, Nottingham Contemporary presents ambitious exhibitions that connect with diverse communities in the Midlands.
HMS Caroline (2019) by Marc AtkinsArt Fund
HMS Caroline
The judges were impressed by HMS Caroline's immersive visitor experience, which brings to life the story of the only surviving ship from the Battle of Jutland and its role in World War I.
Pitt Rivers Museum (2019) by Marc AtkinsArt Fund
Pitt Rivers Museum
The Pitt Rivers Museum was recognised for its singular approach to the way it presents objects, and its willingness to encourage new interpretations - including asking questions about the collection's past.
V&A Dundee (2019) by Marc AtkinsArt Fund
The V&A Dundee
The museum's building was designed by the renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, who took inspiration from Scotland's rugged coastline and cliffs.
Photograph: Marc Atkins and Jaine Airey
Production: Northern Town
