We have already received over 1500 comments on the 2006 long list.
This is just a small selection:
I have visited the Cambridge and County Folk Museum over many years and have been amazed and delighted by the revival that has taken place in the past year. The delight in each object and in the characterful spaces in which they are displayed has been enhanced by the recent renovations (where one feared that it might have been destroyed). The Museum approach and entrance has been given a presence. The addition of the teaching room and the offices above creating a small courtyard is inspired. The Museum has come alive and is engaged in extending its outreach and audiences. It deserves to be short-listed.
Margaret Greeves, Cambridge – 14 March
I am an American by birth, though now a UK Citizen. I feel that this small Museum is of much more than local interest, and those of my countrymen who have been there have found it fascinating. Cambridge has a notable past quite apart from the university, and this is the only place where it is presented in a way that people of many nationalities, and all ages, can respond to. It is also something of a monument both to the dedication of its present staff, and of the local enthusiasts and volunteers who have kept it going and vastly improved it.
Ben Duncan, Cambridge – 14 March
The Museum’s dedication to preserving all things related to Cambridge and its shire, and the wealth of social history contained in its exhibits, set it apart from any other museum in Cambridge. Its recent redevelopment has allowed the wonderful staff to display the objects much better and has allowed them to extend their education work. The redevelopment made excellent use of a very cramped site and has given a feeling of space to what was a very crowded museum. Being a small museum it survives on low funding and the good will and support of its Friends and volunteers. It is a survivor, a small fish in a big pond and should definitely receive the Prize.
Elizabeth Hipkin, Shepreth, Herts – 21 March
This is a lovely, informal museum. The staff are very friendly and informative, and made us feel very welcome when we arrived. The exhibits are in a nice setting, and the information is clear and in keeping. All in all, pretty good.
Paul Miller, Ilford – 25 March
I went to the Churchill Museum and Cabinet War Rooms last year with my two daughters, Amy 12 and Fay 6. We very much enjoyed it. I had a hard time getting them out to go home. They both loved the interactive areas in the Churchill Museum - it very much brought him back to life. Winston Churchill has always been a hero of mine and I found it all very interesting. It helps children realise that the second World War wasn’t so long ago. Well done for bringing history to life so well. We hope to visit again in the Easter holidays.
Natasha Drewry, Pimlico, London – 16 March
Absolutely stunning. Took the family. One of the few museums which worked on so many levels: For the children it taught them stuff they did not already know in a way which was not boring, i.e. lots of hands on and buttons to press. For the adults it presented what a proper ‘old fashioned’ museum should do, i.e. lots of actual exhibits and interesting facts which brought our prior knowledge to life.
Nigel Smart, Bristol – 20 March
I am a military historian by profession and a recent biographer of Churchill. I was particularly impressed by the Churchill Museum in the Cabinet War Rooms because it combines the best of scholarly practice with a popular approach which explains and elucidates but never dumbs down. He was an important but very complex figure, and the exhibition explains the man 'in the round.' It is especially valuable having it located within the Cabinet War Rooms, which helps give a sense of almost palpable presence to this great but controversial man. This is a major and much-needed addition to London's serious attractions.
Professor Richard Holmes, Winchester – 24 March
Visited with our Watford PROBUS group yesterday. A wonderful and evocative talk by one of the staff. Then a very interesting walk through the War Rooms and the Churchill Museum. The interactive exhibits, the handheld and easy to use recorded units and the sheer volume and variety of the displays made this probably the best UK Museum we have visited.
Bill Mcgregor, Croxley Green, Herts – 24 March
A true local project, carried out by the people who live near and already loved the Abbey. Imaginative, elegant, iconic, historic, beautiful.
J W Evans, Cardiff – 14 March
I am delighted to see that the Dorchester Abbey Museum has made the long list for the Gulbenkian Prize this year. Having seen the incredible effort of a small dedicated team building the Pentice (overcoming many bureaucratic hurdles on the way), and creating the Cloister Gallery within, has been most impressive. That in itself was only possible as a result of an enormous and successful effort in fund raising. Throughout the whole process the people involved were unswerving in their belief that they would succeed; this in a community of less than 1000 people who have all contributed in various ways to the project. The reward is the quality of the Gallery which tells the story of the history of the Abbey through its various lives and has enabled so many people to more fully appreciate its contribution to the lift of this Village.
Richard C Douglas, Dorchester-on-Thames – 15 March
I visited the Cloister Gallery at Dorchester Abbey recently and was most impressed with the building and the displays therein. The layout is most professional, particularly so when I learnt that the project had been completed on a very low budget, much to the efforts and voluntary hard work of the local community. The excellent presentation provides a good educational resource which is easy to understand. Certainly all very deserving of the Gulbenkian Prize.
Peter Metcalfe, Tenbury Wells, Worcestershire – 21 March
I found this exhibition refreshing in the way it used text, placement and light to enhance the stones and tell their story rather than resorting to computer screens or other high-tech gimmicks which generally detract from the objects. Its simplicity made for a very profound and moving display with something for everyone. I hope this one wins.
Leslie Carlyle, London -22 March
I visited the Hunterian Museum before its renovation, when John Hunter's fabulous specimens were almost hidden in dark, forbidding, old wooden cabinets. The new gallery is an utter transformation. It shows Hunter's work to its best advantage - exactly how I imagine he would have wanted it displayed.
Wendy Moore, London, biographer of John Hunter – 27 February
For any one has an interest in comparative anatomy, pathology and surgery this museum in an absolute gem. I was unaware of the museum until a programme on BBC4 showcased it. Now having visited I believe this is a national treasure that needs all the support it can be given.
Mark Zimmermann, St.Albans – 28 February
I wandered in by accident. I was not sure what to expect and was not intending to stay long but ended up spending most of the afternoon there. This was one of the most fascinating and thought-provoking museums that I have ever been in. I found myself looking into the mind of an 18th century person and was amazed at the breadth of interest and sophistication of thought and scientific approach. It was also incredible to come face to face with life in the 18th century and I am thinking specifically of some of the exhibits about small pox. All in all this was a memorable experience and one I would recommend to anyone.
Dr Johanna Barry, Oxford – 28 February
As a retired doctor as well as an interested member of the public I am immensely impressed by the refurbishment of the Hunterian Museum. John Hunter's immense collection, displayed as it is, cannot fail to draw one into wanting to know more, whether one is student, practitioner, researcher or layman. Science, Medicine and Art are interwoven seamlessly, to one's great delight, as well as adding effortlessly to one's knowledge of this wonderful world.
Dr Carice Ellison-Cliffe, Chelsea – 4 March
The Museum of Flight's superb Concorde exhibit is a wonderful tribute to the greatest, and the most charismatic aircraft, ever. Visiting the Museum and seeing a Concorde up close will probably be the nearest most of us will ever get to experiencing the beauty and grace of this aerodynamic work of art. Winning the Gulbenkian Prize will ensure the Concorde exhibit's future and give pleasure to visitors from all over the world, for many years to come!
Richard Bevis, Lincolnshire – 14 March
I have visited the museum because I was a Concorde pilot until its demise. Of all the retired Concordes, this museum has produced a most professional display, which allows people to get a true feel for the achievement which was Concorde. The effort they have made for authenticity and correct information adds the finishing touch to a splendid exhibit.
James Bedforth, Sheffield – 17 March
The Concorde Experience at the Museum of Flight is marvellous. It really captures the whole ethos of this magnificent aeroplane and the luxury travel it provided. The whole experience makes you feel that you have flown on Concorde! The audio tour provides a deeper insight into what it was like to fly on this aeroplane as a passenger or crew member. Additionally the facilities at the Museum are excellent and very child-friendly. A visit is a must and you'll go back again and again!
The Collier family, West Lothian – 21 March
We came across the Museum of Flight whilst holidaying at Berwick. We love Concorde and thought it a wonderful opportunity to see it close up. We were not disappointed! They called it the Concorde Experience and it was. We were thrilled to be able to touch it, walk through it and talk to people about it. The displays were excellent and informative. The staff were more than helpful. In our party were two adults and three children (8 to 15 years). We all agreed that it was the highlight of our holiday.
Ruth Barwise, Whitehaven – 25 March
A superb display which brings the maritime and industrial heritage of Wales to life and in a style which appeals to old and young alike. It reminds us that Wales was where the industrial revolution began and as a result puts modern Welsh history and contemporary events in context. An exciting new building with all the facilities one would expect.
Richard Houdmont, Cardiff – 10 March
The National Waterfront museum is so different from the old museum that was there before. I feel that the modern, state of the art, interactive exhibits are worthy of this prize. The museum has been adventurous in design as befitting the 21st century. It is spacious, light, airy and very user friendly. I am sure that this museum will be used and enjoyed by Welsh residents and all visitors to Wales. It depicts not only the rich maritime and industrial heritage of Wales, but early settlements, the industrial revolution, life in the 20th century as well as up-to-date information about Welsh life. A thoroughly absorbing experience!
Gloria Owens, Swansea – 10 March
As the Assembly Member for Swansea East, I am delighted that the National Waterfront Museum has been short-listed for such a prestigious award. The Museum shows the impact Wales has had on the world, but also how Welsh industry continues to innovate today. It is also a hugely popular community facility and provides fun for all the family. I fully support the National Waterfront Museum's bid and wish the team the best of luck.
Val Lloyd AM, Swansea East - 17 March
The National Waterfront Museum breaks new ground in making a museum accessible and attractive to a whole range of people. The location, in Swansea's popular marina, is easy to reach and the striking new building - which blends well with the restored former warehouse - draws visitors in. I visited the museum on a Sunday, and it was full of families with children enjoying the interactive exhibits. The museum felt a fun place to be, appealing to young and old alike, and that's why I believe it should win this year's Gulbenkian prize.
Peter Collis, Dorking, Surrey – 21 March
I have visited several previous recipients of the Gulbenkian prize. Without exception they have been museums or galleries where the exhibits are displayed in an eye-catching manner, there are usually live activities, often children's activities, always a variety of media used to impart information. The planned duration of a visit is never quite long enough, leaving the visitor with a wish to return to linger longer over some exhibit, re-read a diary entry, see the bit of film missed 1st time around - just like any good museum/gallery in fact. Gulbenkian museums have something else as well, some indefinable extra that gets you thinking, prompts you to question a previously accepted "given", stays with you months (sometimes years)after the visit. The Roald Dahl centre is just such a place – a worthy recipient of the coveted accolade.
Alison Thorpe, Amersham – 15 March
The nicest, most interesting and well-designed museum we have been to for children and grown-ups. This should get children interested in writers and reading. I sincerely think and hope that it deserves to win!
Genevieve Bennett, London – 20 March
An inspiring museum that brings children's imaginations (and adults in my case) to life. The quirkiness of Roald Dahl and his characters permeate throughout and children are encouraged to explore their own creativity and ideas through numerous interactive activities. On the day I was there I noticed how many parents were struggling to get their children to leave! They were so immersed in all that the museum offered - evidence enough of its justification to be short-listed.
Emma Foster, Balham – 21 March
An imaginative use of a tricky building (just up Mr Dahl's street), drawing in adults and children alike. My son is at the local school and has had wonderful opportunities to work with the writer in residence both at the gallery and at school. The archive is a fabulous resource and is also helping to revive the attractive, but somewhat moribund, High Street. There have been an imaginative range of courses and events both at weekends and during the week. All in all, ‘fabglumptious’!
Trish Swain, The Lee, Bucks – 23 March
A long awaited museum which has exceeded expectations. The building outside and in is fantastic. The quality, content and interpretation of the collection brilliant. Whilst I have to some extent outgrown interactive features, I had to have a play and was delighted to see little people having a ball! The audio visual was interesting and innovative. Having enjoyed both of the temporary exhibitions I am looking forward to the next! I have visited several times and still look forward to going again. A great credit to Lincoln and the professionals who have put in the hard work to get it to this high standard. Fully deserving of such a prestigious award.
Mrs D L Lee, Lincoln – 17 March
I thought this building was great - a very interesting use of the site and very easy to get around with a buggy, despite being on the side of a hill. The main exhibition was good fun - a mix of archaeology and technology - with appeal for children and adults. I also really enjoyed looking at the aerial photo of the county on the floor. At last - a really modern and confident way to display the treasures of an overlooked county.
Helen Child, St Albans, Herts – 20 March
Fantastic! I had such a fab time at the Collection. From the moment you walk up the hill and see this amazing building, to wandering through the beautifully displayed artefacts and becoming involved in the activities around the museum floor, you realise that this place is much more than just a collection of things. It's about life through the centuries around the county where I live and the impact that people had on the UK and beyond. Wonderful. I've taken friends and family, young and old, and I'll keep on going.
Richard, Lincoln – 23 March
We loved it. The building fits in well, the long narrow windows with the vistas, and the one with the view of the cathedral - great. The main exhibition itself is very impressive and appeals to adults and children alike, which is not easy to do. The day we went it was buzzing with people of all ages, families, individuals and the comments we overheard were really enthusiastic - children urging their adults on to do more and more. We really like the Grayson Perry exhibition, it was very moving, especially the samplers. It was crowded too and people obviously found this a very different experience. It means so much to us in rural Lincolnshire to have something lovely like this
Maureen Robinson, Louth – 24 March
I last visited the SS Great Britain over twenty five years ago, when it was little more than just a ships hull. Today I visited that 'ships hull', twenty five years later, on a chilly winter’s afternoon. However the exhibition warmed both my mind and body! My mind was stimulated by the excellent collection of related documents and displays in the museum that served to bring the experience of the Great Britain alive. My body was literally warmed by the steady stream of dehumidified air that is necessary to preserve the iron hull. This served to highlight how sensitive the restoration and ongoing preservation has been, for over more than 35 years by a dedicated team. I can think of no more fitting tribute to the genius of Isambard Kingdom Brunel, in the year of his 200th birthday, than to award the Gulbenkian Prize to the SS Great Britain.
Andy Tonkin, Nailsea, Nr. Bristol – 5 March
I think the SS Great Museum should be short-listed for the prize. I found the exhibitions and displays absolutely fascinating and informative. I am a teacher and shall be using the information in my lessons. I also add I knew nothing about ships beforehand but I do now!
Mary Hall, Bristol – 5 March
We visited the SS Great Britain at the start of its restoration several years ago. On our return last week we were stunned not just by the progress made in the restoration of the ship, but in the way that the museum has displayed the ship, related artefacts and through interpretation that every one can enjoy and relate to come alive. There are too few museums in the UK who use many different media approaches successfully. For over four hours we experienced and learnt about one of the most formative eras in the development of engineering and its impact on trade and the lives of many in the UK and elsewhere. The SS Great Britain, exhibition hall, underwater gallery and audio tour was excellent and we have not stopped recommending it to friends. Well done SS Great Britain.
C Gledhill, Madogfechan, Crai, Brecon, Wales – 8 March
Imaginative, innovative and stunning! I love it and it constantly exceeds the expectations of everyone I have taken down to see the ship.
Nancy Chambers, Bristol – 21 March
YSP Underground Gallery is a wonderfully innovative gallery that respects both the nature of its surroundings and the nature and function of art as a constantly changing medium. The staff are knowledgeable and informative, well prepped for visitors’ comments about the gallery and the work. The site is a haven - a secret treasure - where the visitor is secure and safe to expand his/her horizons by forming strong relationships with the work, the site and its surroundings.
Claire French, West Yorkshire – 18 March
The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is excellent. It has great sculpture shows. It has changed the vision of sculpture; it has brought sculpture to the attention of the North of England. Simultaneously it has brought the North of England to the attention of the rest of the world as an exciting artistic hub. The park attracts people from all over the world; the park has spread its net wide and always maintained its high standard. I think that the Yorkshire Sculpture Park deserves this award immensely.
Sir Anthony Caro, Sculptor, London – 20 March
The YSP's underground gallery, quite aside from being a wonderful building, is a vital resource for the public to access challenging, internationally acclaimed artists. The gallery also gives the imaginative team of curators the opportunity to present a diverse selection of artists in space which would rival the best anywhere in the world. I hope the Gulbenkian judges recognise the commitment of the staff, the increasingly impressive and always diverse selection of artists shown or to come at the YSP and the scope that remains for further enhancing the park.
David McAughtrie, East Yorkshire – 20 March
We discovered the YSP a couple of years ago and we are completely hooked. The exhibitions are very varied and always fascinating and informative. The opening of the marvellous new Underground Gallery has enhanced the experience, allowing an indoor display of sculpture to match the superb displays outside. The YSP brings much-needed new artistic experiences to the North, and its situation so close to the M1 means that it is accessible to many people. We use it to meet up with family from Birmingham and Nottingham and we all enjoy the Park - from Granny and Grandad down to pre-schoolers, not forgetting the dreaded teenagers. A very special experience - it deserves to win.
Rosemary Hollins, Bingley, West Yorkshire – 23 March
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