Jewish Museum London announces closure of current site

The Jewish Museum in London will close its current site in Camden in the coming months in order to develop sustainable plans for the future in light of rising costs.

The museum said that it has faced unanticipated rising costs, which have prevented it from producing temporary exhibitions since the pandemic.

It added that the museum is unable to meet all the demands of its successful schools programme in the current site, while the exhibition space is relatively small, and is not sufficient for the future ambitions of the organisation.

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The current building, which has housed the museum since 2010, will be sold, with the money used to cover interim operational costs, contribute towards the new museum site, and seed money to support a forthcoming capital investment campaign. 

"This will bring to reality the museum’s centenary vision of developing a more modern, engaging and inspiring visitor experience in a new, more prominent location," a statement released by the museum said. 

Discussions are currently underway with partners to explore temporary exhibition and education spaces for the collection.

Nick Viner, Chair of Jewish Museum London, said: "As we approach our centenary, Jewish Museum London is at a crossroads. We have an extraordinary opportunity to re-envisage the museum for the future. 

"We are deeply grateful for the commitment and generosity of countless people who have made the site at Albert Street a home to ground-breaking exhibitions and our award-winning education programme. 

"Our decision to sell the current building is not taken lightly, but as trustees it’s our responsibility to consider the longer-term sustainability of the museum. As the collection leaves Albert Street for a new temporary home, it will also create opportunities to experiment, as we develop the new vision for Jewish Museum London together with all our stakeholders."

The museum receives £224,000 a year from Arts Council England (ACE) as part of the National Portfolio for 2023-26.

Tonya Nelson, London Area Director at ACE said the funder wants to ensure the "nationally outstanding collection is preserved and accessible for generations to come" and is working closely with the museum to make sure this happens.

"We are aware of the challenges being experienced by Jewish Museum London and are working closely with the board, the leadership team and stakeholders to support the museum as it addresses its financial resilience and determines the options available to them," she said.