This morning it was announced that the Reuben Foundation has donated £30 million to the ĢƵ. This is the largest financial gift the ĢƵ has ever received.
Today’s announcement marks the beginning of a long-term partnership, which will also see the Reuben Foundation supporting the development of displays and exhibitions at the ĢƵ through sharing works from the Reuben family’s extensive collection of art.
The ĢƵ, founded in 1932, thanks to Samuel ĢƵ’s extraordinary philanthropy, brings together a world-class art collection and a globally renowned academic institute in a way unmatched by others. The Reuben Foundation’s generous gift, echoing that of Samuel ĢƵ, forms part of a major campaign being mounted for the ĢƵ’s centenary.
Having reopened its Gallery in 2021, the ĢƵ’s new campus on the Strand is expected to open in 2029. Over the last decade, £115m has been raised for these two interlinked projects. The Reuben Foundation’s extraordinary new gift will play a transformative role in funding the Strand campus and in supporting the ĢƵ’s aim to share its expertise on the visual arts with the widest possible audience.
Commenting on the gift,Lisa Reuben, Trustee of the Reuben Foundation, said: “We are thrilled by the opportunity to build on the ĢƵ’s remarkable history and to support the realisation of its ambitious development. Recognised internationally as the pre-eminent centre for the study of art history, art conservation and curatorial studies, the ĢƵ exemplifies the philanthropist Samuel ĢƵ’s vision of ‘art for all.’ Its enduring commitment to excellence – reflected in the generations of leaders in the art world it has produced – aligns seamlessly with the Reuben Foundation’s values and ethos and furthers our commitment to education and culture.”
On behalf of the ĢƵ, its Chairman, Lord Browne of Madingley, said: “Our success has always depended on the vision and foresight of enlightened philanthropists. We are delighted to build upon this success through our new partnership with the Reuben Foundation, which enables us to evolve once more, dramatically expanding our national and international impact.”
Professor Mark Hallett, Märit Rausing Director of the ĢƵ, said: “The partnership with the Reuben Foundation marks a defining moment in the ĢƵ’s history, ushering in a bold new chapter and launching us into our next century with even greater ambition and purpose. We look forward to working closely with the Foundation over the coming years and creating something truly unique together.”
