image source, Worcestershire heritage, art and museums
Martin Cooke said he was inspired by previous large donations to museum charities
A second six-figure donation will be made to Worcester Museum Charities, which will support the development of a new gallery and the establishment of an internship program.
The charity said philanthropist Martin Cooke, who is originally from the city and now lives in the United States, had made a “significant” donation.
The new gallery will display fine and decorative art objects, including a nationally significant glove collection.
Worcester Art Gallery and Museum said at the time that the funds would be used to purchase further art and lay the groundwork for a new gallery.
Charity confirms second donation, new gallery highlights Worcestershire as a “land of inspiration for artists”, featuring artists who have visited and worked in the area, including Paul Nash and Laura Knight He said he would exhibit his works.
“It will also celebrate Worcester's strength as a center for design education, supporting Worcester's international porcelain and glove industries in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.”
“At its heart is the new Shirley and Rolf Olsen Gallery, which will permanently display Worcester's finest collection of works by British Impressionist artists.”
image source, Worcestershire Heritage, Arts and Museums Charity
Professor Rolf Olsen (centre) made his donation in March 2022
Meanwhile, the charity added that the internships will help foster creative talent in the city, support young people entering the museum profession and establish a national art awards competition.
Mr Cook was inspired to make the donation after reading about Professor Olsen's donation and said: “We share the same enthusiasm and vision for improving Worcester's cultural life and hope others will follow suit.” said the paper.
The museum will display gloves by famous fashion designers such as Manolo Blahnik as part of an exhibition on Worcester's role in the international glove trade.
Mr Cook added: “I want to contribute to the cultural development of Worcester and Professor Olsen’s ambition resonated with me.
“My hope is to support the development of art and museums, celebrate the rich heritage of the city where I grew up, and build on Professor Olsen’s legacy.”
Caroline Naisbitt, from the charity, said she was “extremely grateful” for the charity's generous donation.
