The Ashmolean transformed
space for teaching, community events and
exhibitions, as well as a lunchroom for families
and groups. A separate entrance will
allow for after-hours access
The Ashmolean Plan will enable us to overcome the challenges we currently face in fulfilling our mission: to make our collections of art and archaeology available to the widest possible audience, for study, enjoyment and inspiration.
Inside the Museum's new and refurbished galleries, thousands of objects previously in storage will be shown for the first time. An innovative approach to display will offer visitors a storyline – a way to understand the Ashmolean's astonishingly rich collections. Environmental control will allow even the rarest, most fragile items to be seen.
architect's impression of the completed extension
Learning and access will be at the heart of the transformed Museum. A purpose-built Education Centre will allow an expansion of the high quality programmes already on offer. These programmes will respond to the needs of visitors of all ages, backgrounds and abilities, encouraging a more diverse audience to use the Ashmolean. The Education Centre will also support outreach initiatives in the region. A separate entrance and after hours access will make the Centre a hub of community activity.
Departmental study centres will strengthen the Ashmolean's reputation as an international centre for research and will substantially increase the amount of teaching done on site. These centres will offer university students, specialists and the general public the opportunity to handle collections, consult curators, and take part in seminars and symposia.
A new conservation suite featuring environmentally controlled laboratories dedicated to the care of objects, textiles and paintings, will permit the Ashmolean's conservators to fully utilize their expertise to preserve the Museum's remarkable collections for the enjoyment and education of future generations.
