Art Fund Prize judges visit Turner Contemporary

Today, the Art Fund Prize judges visited Turner Contemporary as part of their UK-wide tour of nominated organisations.

They met with Director Victoria Pomery, Chair of Trustees John Kampfner and Head of Learning Karen Eslea, took a tour around the gallery and also visited Margate Old Town and the seafront.

Sally Abbott, Regional Director of Arts Council England South East, is one of Turner Contemporary’s funding partners who also welcomed the Art Fund judges. She says:

'The Arts Council has long argued that the arts are the glue that binds communities together and there is certainly compelling evidence that Turner Contemporary is helping to breathe new life into Margate. Its first year visitor figures are very impressive but perhaps even more of an achievement is the fact that 20,000 of those who have been attracted to the gallery are first time gallery goers.

The Art Fund Prize 2012 would be a fitting tribute to this engaging and iconic space - to a programme that successfully marries historical and contemporary art, to a team who are working hard to make it a success, and to all those who are enjoying great art within its walls. I wish Turner Contemporary the very best of luck!’

Cabinet Member for Community Services, Thanet District Council, Cllr. Iris Johnston, said: 'I'm absolutely delighted for Turner Contemporary. Being longlisted for such a prestigious award is fantastic and echoes the success the gallery has achieved in its first year. This is another important accolade for Turner Contemporary, which is making its mark nationally and internationally, and I’m thrilled it’s here in Margate.'

The visit coincided with Turner Contemporary's first birthday celebrations WE ARE ONE. To celebrate 365 cupcakes were made and given out to visitors, supplied by the Cupcake Cafe in Margate.

Funders

Partners