Two University of Leicester projects shortlisted for Museum and Heritage Awards 2023
Two projects from University of Leicester's School of Museum Studies have been shortlisted for the prestigious Museum and Heritage Awards.
Everywhere and Nowhere, a film that tells underrepresented stories of disability throughout history, was developed by the Research Centre for Museums and Galleries at University of Leicester and the National Trust, with an international group of disability experts.
Since its launch in January, the film has received widespread press and public interest, helping to spark and inform a national conversation about disability equality.
It has been shortlisted for Best Use of Digital - UK at the Museum and Heritage Awards.
Permissible Beauty, an exhibition co-created with Historic Royal Palaces and shown at Hampton Court Palace in London was also developed with the University of Leicester’s Research Centre for Museums and Galleries with acclaimed performer and art historian, David McAlmont, photographer, Robert Taylor, filmmaker Mark Thomas, and exhibition designer, Julie Howell.
The exhibition re-examined the ‘Windsor Beauties’, ten portraits of women at the court of Charles II, painted by Sir Peter Lely. The 17th-century portraits have inspired a new series of portraits showcasing creative talents from the Black British Queer community.
Permissible Beauty has been shortlisted for Temporary or Touring Exhibition of the Year.
University of Leicester’s School of Museum Studies is the only autonomous department in the UK dedicated to the study of museums and galleries. It is the oldest and largest academic unit of its kind in the world.
The School has acquired a global reputation for leading-edge thinking and experimental practice in museum studies.
Professor Richard Sandell, Co-Director of the Research Centre for Museums and Galleries at University of Leicester said: “At a time when museums’ and heritage organisations’ attempts to tell more inclusive and ethical histories have been dismissed or undermined, we are enormously grateful to the Award judges for recognising and celebrating the important role that culture can play in tackling prejudice and discrimination.”
Professor Tilly Blyth, Head of the School of Museum Studies at University of Leicester said: “I am delighted that these important projects have been shortlisted for two prestigious Museum and Heritage Awards. We work collaboratively with the Museums and Galleries sector to give voice to those who have not traditionally been represented. It means a great deal that the importance of our partnerships with the National Trust and Historic Royal Palaces has been recognised in this way.”
The winners of the Museums and Heritage Awards will be announced during a live ceremony on Wednesday 10 May.