The Courtauld is the world’s leading centre for the study of art history, conservation and curating.  It houses one of Britain’s most significant art collections, including a large number of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.

Art for all

The Courtauld is embarking on its biggest programme of development since moving to Somerset House in 1989.  Revitalising its 18th-century building will open it up to many more visitors and enable greater access to The Courtauld’s resources and activities. This initiative takes it back to the original vision of founder Samuel Courtauld who believed that “art is and must be for all.”

Increased visitor numbers

The programme of work includes:

• conservation of major display newly created galleries
• temporary exhibition space
• a remodelled entrance
• improved visitor facilities
• a new learning centre which will double visitor numbers for school children, families and community groups.
• There will also be an online archive of 1.1 million images and a significant new partnership programme with 13 organisations across the UK

Sharing the artistic love

The Courtauld has already initiated a pilot project with the Herbert Art Gallery and Museum in Coventry by sharing an important group of Impressionist works by Edgar Degas.  Vase of Flowers by Claude Monet will travel to the Harris Art Gallery in Preston and Dejeuner sur l’Herbe by Edouard Manet will be lent to the Ferens Art Gallery in Hull as part of the Hull UK City of Culture 2017.

[quote=Stuart Hobley, Head of HLF London]“What better way to thank National Lottery players than by bringing back Samuel Courtauld’s vision of ‘art for all’!”[/quote]

Professor Deborah Swallow, Märit Rausing Director, The Courtauld, said: “We are taking Samuel Courtauld’s vision of art for all and reimagining The Courtauld for the 21st century so that new audiences around the world can benefit from our work and his legacy.”

Stuart Hobley, Head of HLF London, said: “Our funding will help to unlock The Courtauld's treasures by revitalising the ‘gateway’ of its Somerset House site and re-energising its work with communities outside the capital. What better way to thank National Lottery players than by bringing back Samuel Courtauld’s vision of ‘art for all’!”

Sir Nicholas Serota, Director, Tate, said: “Courtauld Connects is a bold venture that will open the resources of both parts of The Courtauld to new audiences in London and across the country.”