The National Gallery, right in the heart of London that’s home to the world’s most renowned collection of Western paintings, has announced a monumental transformation as it steps into its third century to the tune of a massive pledge funding that will change the Gallery as we know it.
Don’t miss seeing Joseph Wright’s From the Shadows while it’s on show in the National Gallery.
With an unprecedented £375 million in pledged funding, including two of the largest single cash donations ever reported for a museum or gallery, the institution is embarking on its most ambitious project since its founding 200 years ago.
At the heart of this transformation is the launch of an international architectural competition to design a brand-new wing. This addition will expand the Gallery’s capacity to house its growing collection and elevate the visitor experience. The competition is expected to attract a mix of established and emerging architectural talent, promising a design that will reflect the Gallery’s global stature.
A new era for the National Gallery
The new wing, to be built on the site of St Vincent House, will mark the third phase of the Gallery’s masterplan, initiated in 2018. This space, once a hotel and office complex, was acquired nearly 30 years ago with the vision of future expansion. The project, named Project Domani, will not only enhance the Gallery’s physical footprint but also transform the surrounding area between Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square, creating a vibrant and welcoming environment for visitors.
The new wing will incorporate cutting-edge building techniques and sustainable practices, ensuring it becomes a landmark of both local and international significance. This development aims to solidify the National Gallery’s position as one of the most visited and beloved cultural institutions in the world.
Expanding the collection and collaboration
The transformation is not limited to physical expansion. The National Gallery is also focusing on extending its historic collection, which spans from the early 13th century to the present day. This initiative will allow the Gallery to continue telling the evolving story of Western painting, reflecting the ways artists and societies have responded to myth, religion, history, and contemporary events.
In a historic move, the National Gallery is deepening its collaboration with Tate and other museums across the UK and internationally. This partnership will include shared expertise in loans, curation, and conservation, ensuring that the National Collection remains dynamic and accessible to all. Together, the institutions aim to present a comprehensive and complementary narrative of art history, enriching the cultural landscape for future generations.
Unprecedented support for a bold vision
The £375 million pledged for Project Domani represents an extraordinary level of philanthropic support. The Crankstart foundation, led by Sir Michael Moritz KBE and Harriet Heyman, and the Julia Rausing Trust have each contributed £150 million, with an additional £75 million coming from the National Gallery Trust, Chairman of Trustees John Booth, and other anonymous donors. These contributions underscore the transformative potential of the project and the enduring importance of the National Gallery as a cultural beacon.
A global cultural landmark
With this ambitious initiative, the National Gallery is reaffirming its commitment to making great art accessible to all. The new wing and expanded collection will enhance displays, exhibitions, research, and educational programs, broadening engagement with local, national, and international audiences. By blending timeless art with innovative architecture, the Gallery aims to inspire, educate, and captivate visitors for generations to come.
As Project Domani takes shape, the National Gallery is poised to redefine its role on the global cultural stage, ensuring that the beauty and drama of Western painting continue to resonate in a world-class setting.
For more information and to plan your visit, check out the National Gallery website and if you want to be apart of the National Gallery, you now can!