The London Museum has been granted £20m and 14,000 Roman artefacts by Bloomberg Philanthropies, the largest private donation to the museum. The funds will enhance exhibition spaces and digital access. These artefacts, uncovered during construction, will be displayed in new galleries opening next year, marking a significant cultural investment.
The London Museum has received a £20m donation alongside over 14,000 Roman artefacts from Bloomberg Philanthropies. This marks the largest private donation and archaeological archive presented to the museum to date. The funds will be used to transform two market buildings in Smithfield into exhibition spaces, enhance the digital collection, and support research efforts.
The Roman artefacts, uncovered during construction of Bloomberg’s European headquarters between 2012 and 2014, will be showcased in the new permanent galleries, set to open next year. While some artefacts have been on display since 2017, much of the collection has never been publicly accessible.
Sharon Ament, London Museum’s director, described the donation as “momentous”, emphasizing its role in linking history with the future and benefiting London. She stated that collaborations with organizations like Bloomberg are vital for preserving heritage and creating opportunities for locals.
Michael R. Bloomberg expressed pride in supporting the project, underlining that investments in arts and culture foster economic growth, inspire innovation, and build community pride. He noted that the new museum will serve as a dynamic hub for London’s rich history.
This donation enhances a long-term partnership between Bloomberg and the London Museum, which received support through the Digital Accelerator Programme for Arts and Culture in 2023. The total budget for relocating the museum from London Wall is £437m, with plans for new galleries, temporary exhibitions, collection stores, and a learning centre set to open by 2028, while London Museum Docklands remains operational.
The London Museum’s receipt of a £20m donation and 14,000 Roman artefacts from Bloomberg Philanthropies is a landmark contribution, facilitating the creation of new exhibition spaces and enhancing digital access. This partnership underlines the importance of cultural investment in preserving heritage and fostering community engagement as the museum prepares for its significant relocation and expansion initiatives.
Original Source: www.artsprofessional.co.uk