Ferens Art Gallery is in the running to become Art Fund Museum of the Year 2018, the biggest museum and art gallery prize in the world. Now, the gallery is urging the residents and visitors to pledge their support.
Making the final five means it is one of the best museum in the country following a record breaking year in the spotlight when Hull celebrated being UK City of Culture. The Ferens was recognised for commissioning the UK’s largest naked art work with Spencer Tunick in 2016.
His photographs, formed part of an internationally renowned exhibition SKIN and the Ferens also played host to the Turner Prize, one of the world’s most renowned arts prizes.
Simon Green, Director of Cultural Services at Hull Culture and Leisure, said:
“We are immensely proud to have been shortlisted for this significant award. It is the world’s biggest prize in recognition of the best museum or art gallery and to win would be incredible for the city.
“We need to show the judges and the world that Ferens Art Gallery wants to win and deserves to win. We need everyone’s backing, highlighting how much the gallery means to the people of Hull and the wider region.”
Councillor Stephen Brady OBE, Leader of Hull City Council, said:
“This is great news for the city. The gallery played a major role in the art programme, achieving a record-breaking year with visitor numbers and a world-class programme. To be chosen as a finalist opens up more opportunities for the gallery and builds on the profile further.
“I have seen first-hand how art and culture can inspire and improve lives; the council is committed to ensuring the Ferens will continue to succeed and bring the very best art to Hull. The quality of the competition is extremely high but the time is right for Ferens Art Gallery to win and to continue to tell its story to the world.”
To show your support visit the gallery, it is free, share your experiences, pictures and best memories within the gallery or on social media using the #museumoftheyear and #loveFerens
