Smith gets £86k to help secure its future

The Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum has been awarded £86,506 by Museum Galleries Scotland to enable a range of development plans amidst the strain of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The national Recovery and Resilience Fund aims to secure the future of Scottish independent museums put at risk by the pandemic.

The funding award will support plans for growth and improvements including a new education strategy and delivery plan; action on tackling asbestos; the creation of a new business operations plan; the production of 2000 20 Great Paintings booklets; funding for an admin support post for 10 weeks; development of a new, responsive website integrating the collections database and including an online booking system; supporting staff training, the digitisation of collections records and photography of key objects in the collection.

Stirling MSP Bruce Crawford and Stirling MP Alyn Smith welcomed the news, believing the Smith maintains a special place in the hearts of Stirling residents.

Mr Crawford MSP said:“stirling has a plethora of rich heritage and institutions like the Stirling Smith are crucial in making sure it’s accessible and shared. This pandemic has been hard for many organisations, and I’m extremely pleased to see Museums Galleries

Scotland recognise the importance of this fine institution to Stirling’s local tourism and culture.”

His MP colleague Mr Smith added: “The Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum is a jewel in Stirling’s crown and attracts visitors from all over the world. These bold and exciting plans will only cement that well-earned reputation, and ensure our local history and art can be shared for years to come.”