Winner of The Art Fund Prize 2008
...thank you for all your support!

The Lightbox has won The Art Fund Prize for museums and galleries 2008. The announcement was made by chair of the judging panel, Sue MacGregor, at an awards ceremony at RIBA in London last night (Thursday 22 May).

“We are over the moon,” said Marilyn Scott, Director of The Lightbox. “To have won such a prestigious award as The Art Fund Prize so soon after opening is beyond our wildest dreams. We would like to thank everyone who has worked so hard for The Lightbox over the last 15 years, from volunteers and staff to the architects, and the project team, our trustees, our sponsors and supporters.”

“This award is a testament to the vision of a group of Woking residents who were determined to create a cultural centre for the arts and heritage in their town," Marilyn continued. "Part of our mission has been to change the perceptions that Woking has nothing to offer and that it has no history. We believe that with the creation of The Lightbox both of these myths have been dispelled.”

The purpose of The Art Fund Prize for museums and galleries is to recognize and stimulate originality and excellence in museums and galleries in the UK, and increase public appreciation and enjoyment of all they have to offer.

The judges were impressed by a visit to The Lightbox in February. Sue MacGregor said that she enjoyed ‘Woking’s Story,’ the museum of the town’s history. She mentioned the displays on the Shah Jehan Mosque, the first to be built in the country, and Brookwood Cemetery, which was used as a London overflow in the 19th century, as particular highlights.

Members of the public had been invited to explain on The Art Fund Prize website why they thought that The Lightbox should win.

“We are so grateful to everyone who has supported us with wonderful comments on The Art Fund Prize website,” added Marilyn Scott. “We could not have done it without you!"