The Equitable Partnership Award recognises the best example of a museum and community partner(s) working together equitably to achieve shared goals. The judges are particularly keen to see evidence of mutually beneficial relationships and shared decision-making, as well as long-term commitment to change.
- As part of the new display, Nigerian-British filmmaker, Eden Igwe directed a short film featuring a child with Benin ancestry connecting with their heritage through material from Benin City.
- The Horniman’s Learning team worked in partnership with the Museum of West African Art, students from University Preparatory School in Benin City and artist 12th the Creator, to design a graphic wallpaper for the display.
- Our first international artist residency, with Benin-born artist Osaru Obaseki, resulted in a bronze sculpture for the display.
- And finally, a healing practitioner and artist advised on the emotional and spiritual aspects of the display.
The Horniman’s approach to this project is part of a long-term commitment to working with, rather than for, communities.
The Museums Change Lives Awards were announced in a ceremony as part of the Museums Association’s (MA) 2025 Conference at the St Fagans National Museum of History in Cardiff.
Congratulations to the four winners who are all doing exceptional work to bring communities together and make a difference to people’s lives. I am truly inspired by the innovative work museums across the UK are doing to be a force for good in tackling many of the most pressing challenges of our time.’
Museums and their communities across the UK are helping to create a positive and lasting difference. The winning projects and individuals all demonstrate the value of museums to society and make a strong case for the importance of public investment in our museums.
Association for Heritage Interpretation: Highly Commended
Also last week, the Chá, Chai, Tea exhibition was highly commended for The Touchstone Intangible Heritage Award by the Association for Heritage Interpretation. The judges were looking for imaginative and evocative work that effectively and successfully engages people with cultural heritage and contributes towards diversity.
Family Friendly Museum Awards: Shortlisted
And we were honoured to be shortlisted for Kids in Museums’ Family Friendly Museum Awards 2025, which were announced this week. Congratulations to the winner in our category (large museum), The Burrell Collection in Glasgow and to the overall winner, Experience Barnsley Museum & Discovery Centre.
Lead image: Objects on loan from National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Nigeria.