The National Science and Media Museum in Bradford has appointed Agents of Change (AOC) to design two new galleries for its ambitious Sound and Vision project, which will transform the museum by bringing its world class collections to life in new and exciting ways.
Following a competitive tender process, the Sound and Vision project reaches a significant milestone with AOC appointed to design and deliver the new galleries. AOC will work collaboratively with the museum’s project team to conceptualise and design the two significant new galleries that will showcase key objects and stories from the museum’s world-class collections of photography, film, television, animation, videogames, and sound technologies. AOC have also been commissioned to review and update the museum’s current Masterplan to reflect the development of the Sound and Vision galleries and the improvements to visitor flow with the installation of a new lift.
AOC are a practice of designers and architects who engage and collaborate with communities to bring designs to life. The agency has significant experience in the museums and heritage sector with impressive credentials including acclaimed projects for the V&A, Wellcome Collection and the Crafts Council.
Commenting on the appointment, Jo Quinton-Tulloch, Director of the National Science and Media Museum, said: “We are thrilled to reach this significant milestone of the Sound and Vision project with the appointment of Agents of Change to bring our world class collections to life in new and exciting ways.
By working collaboratively with our local audiences, the development of the new galleries will connect our community to our world class collections and truly reflect that Bradford is the youngest and one of the UK’s most diverse and fastest growing cities. The project will also give us the vital opportunity to realise the Science Museum Group’s mission of making STEM education open for all, helping to close some of the disparities caused by the pandemic and providing fantastic opportunities for our communities.”
Gill Lambert, Director at AOC added: “We are delighted to be working with the National Science and Media Museum on this significant redevelopment project. Through developing the masterplan, reimagining the visitor experience and transforming the galleries we hope to support the museum in its vision to become both a world-class destination and an essential public place for the people of Bradford. The new galleries will celebrate the fantastic collection of photography, film and sound technologies, displayed in a way that creatively engages its audiences and nurtures the opportunity for shared collective experiences.”
Currently in the development phase thanks to support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Sound and Vision will inspire future generations, by providing wider access to world class collections of photography, radio, film, TV, sound and digital technologies. Created in close consultation with local communities, the galleries will make the museum a cultural cornerstone as Bradford becomes UK City of Culture in 2025. Sound and Vision also complements the city’s ambitious culture strategy Culture is our Plan. and supports the wider region’s commitment to building a digital economy.
In the lead up to City of Culture in 2025, Sound and Vision will reenergise Bradford’s cultural offer through three distinct focus areas— the internationally significant Science Museum Group’s collections; STEM; and working collaboratively, increasing participation with the collections. The development of the new galleries will explore key stories which are relevant to all our lives, including the creation of the world’s first photograph; Louis Le Prince’s ground-breaking work in moving images and film; and the forgotten pioneer of the pixel who created the building blocks of digital photography.
The project will also engage visitors in STEM by uncovering the science behind the everyday, showing that science is relevant to everything we do. The project will also work with local communities through a detailed activity plan, including opportunities to collect community stories, inspiring more people to reimagine their relationship with STEM and support them with opportunities for employment and upskilling.
For more information on Sound and Vision, please visit the National Science and Media Museum website.
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For more information, please contact Brittany Noppe, Senior Press Officer on brittany.noppe@scienceandmediamuseum.org.uk or 01274 203356
Press images are available to download via WeTransfer.
About the National Science and Media Museum
The National Science and Media Museum in Bradford, West Yorkshire, opened in 1983, and has since become one of the most visited UK museums outside London. The Museum explores the science and culture of image and sound technologies, creating special exhibitions, interactive galleries and activities for families and adults. It is home to three cinemas, including Europe’s first IMAX cinema screen and the world’s only public Cinerama screen. Entry to the Museum is free.
About The National Lottery Heritage Fund
National Lottery Heritage Fund grant applications over £250,000 are assessed in two rounds. Sound and Vision has initially been granted round one development funding of £318,963 by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, allowing it to progress with its plans. Detailed proposals are then considered by The National Lottery Heritage Fund at second round, where a final decision is made on the full funding award of £3,084,753.
Using money raised by the National Lottery, we Inspire, lead and resource the UK’s heritage to create positive and lasting change for people and communities, now and in the future.
Follow @HeritageFundUK and @HeritageFundNOR on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram and use #NationalLotteryHeritageFund
About AOC
AOC is a practice of architects and designers established in 2005. Based in East London, the studio is best known for its public buildings, cultural institutions, educational projects and exhibition designs.
Completed projects include the Reading Room at Wellcome Collection; the Crafts Council Gallery; Somerset House Studios; and the Green, a low carbon community centre in south London run by local residents.
Current projects include the transformation of the V&A’s Museum of Childhood in Bethnal Green, London; the redevelopment of The National Archives’ brutalist icon in Kew; a new public heritage education centre in the Grade II* headquarters of Lloyd’s Register Foundation, City of London; and a new building for the National Railway Museum at Locomotion, Shildon.
AOC have built a reputation for the quality of their designs, winning RIBA, Design Museum Designs of the Year and New London awards. The practice’s work has been internationally published and exhibited, including the British School at Rome, Royal Academy, V&A and Venice Biennale.
