A grant of £3.3million will enable the museum to transform the way it displays its anthropology collection, tell stories from around the world and celebrate the wonder and complexity of what it means to be human.

Alongside the gallery, a new studio will host a programme of performances and exhibitions inspired by the collection.

[quote=Stuart Hobley, Head of HLF London]“The project will ensure that people – from our ancestors to today’s visitors – remain at its heart.”[/quote]

People, past and present

More than 3,000 objects will be displayed in the gallery. Robert Storries, Keeper of Anthropology at the Horniman, explained: “The displays will show how 'things' connect people – practically and emotionally – as well as giving each of us a glimpse into other ways of understanding the world we all share.”

Stuart Hobley, Head of HLF London, said: “Already much-loved in South London, the Horniman has an incredible global story to tell. Thanks to National Lottery players this project will enable previously hidden items from the museum’s anthropology collections to be enjoyed for the first time and ensure that people – from our ancestors to today’s visitors – remain at its heart.”

Next steps

The museum’s current anthropology gallery will close from September 2016. The Horniman is raising a further £1.4m of funding to complete the project and the new World Gallery is expected to open in 2018.