Bringing new life to the Hunterian
The Hunterian has been at the heart of Glasgow’s cultural landscape for over 200 years. As Scotland’s oldest public museum, The Hunterian continues to inspire curiosity, learning and innovation. Since their origin as a teaching tool for students, the value of the collections in arts, humanities and the sciences has grown—shaping minds, sparking critical enquiry and fostering creativity across generations.
Now, thanks to National Lottery Players and a grant of £249,000 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, The Hunterian has launched ‘Unlocking the Potential of The Hunterian: The Changing Museum’ - an exciting scoping project to fully understand what is needed to reimagine and safeguard The Hunterian for future generations.
A Vision for the Future
As a bridge between the University and wider society, The Hunterian is a place where people come together to both challenge and find common ground. In a time where there is an urgent need to understand our histories and each other, The Hunterian provides space for diverse voices, perspectives, and connections across communities in Glasgow and around the world. The Hunterian will be a space where the collections are activated for questioning and discovery, for enjoyment and enrichment, for connection and collaboration and for actively reflecting on the role it can play in furthering equity, justice and diversity in society.
“We are delighted to receive this funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to undertake this crucial foundational work,” said Director of The Hunterian, Steph Scholten.
When our vision is realised, our spaces will be revitalised, meeting the needs of all our visitors. This project will help us understand what is required to reimagine The Hunterian as a space that truly belongs to the people of Glasgow and beyond for the next generation.”
Spaces to Come Together
The University of Glasgow is undertaking a comprehensive buildings survey which will highlight the necessary redevelopment work for the Hunterian Museum in the Gilbert Scott building and the Hunterian Art Gallery and Mackintosh House in the Whitfield building, to ensure these venues remain vibrant, accessible and sustainable spaces for generations to come.
The second pillar of the project will define what happens inside these venues, creating a clear pathway to get The Hunterian from where it is now to where it would like to be.
Collaboration is at the heart of this transformation. Communities across the University, Glasgow and beyond will have an active voice in making The Hunterian a place where they feel they belong. The project will invite people to share their insights, ideas, and experiences to shape The Hunterian’s future.
Director of The Hunterian Steph Scholten said:
Curious people need welcoming spaces where they can think critically, engage meaningfully, and build understanding - especially in times of uncertainty. The Hunterian has the potential to be that space, but only if we invest in our people and our spaces. Completion of ‘Unlocking the Potential of The Hunterian: The Changing Museum’ will allow us to harness further support to achieve our vision of activating our venues and collections in ethical and equitable ways.”
How You Can Get Involved
Collaboration and co-production are key to what The Hunterian of the future will look like. If you would like to share your thoughts, The Hunterian is recruiting a Community Panel and running a series of information workshops and focus groups as part of the project.
Register your interest to find out more.
Philanthropy has played a vital role in The Hunterian’s story since its inception. For this next chapter, donor support will be more important than ever. Gifts from individuals and organisations will help The Hunterian build on this initial funding, ensuring that its ambitious plans become a reality.
Stay up to date with all the latest news and stories from The Hunterian via The Hunterian blog, or website.
There will be no closures as part of this initial scoping project, and The Hunterian looks forward to welcoming you.
Using money raised by National Lottery players, The National Lottery Heritage Fund supports projects that connect people and communities with the UK’s heritage.
‘Unlocking the Potential of The Hunterian: The Changing Museum’ is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund.