Gallery scoops national recognition for fifth year

1.53.57pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 27th Aug 2007

Orleans House Gallery has achieved national recognition for the fifth successive year in a search for the most innovative and accessible exhibition venues.

The Richmond Council-run gallery was commended for an interactive family event staged during Museums and Galleries Month, held in May. Called "Carnival Arts: What has the Slave Trade to do with us?", the event saw families collaborate with renowned artist Carl Gabriel on a sculpture that would form the centrepiece of the Twickenham Carnival parade. The commendation means that the Twickenham gallery has now been ranked in the top five in the country for its innovative approach for the fifth year in a row.

Cllr John Coombs, Cabinet Member for Youth, Culture and Leisure, said: "This is excellent news and further evidence of the superb community-based arts programme at Orleans House Gallery. The Council's Arts Service stages numerous events and projects throughout the year, increasing cultural opportunities for a wide variety of people. This year's event was a first for us as we gave families the chance to work with an artist and contribute to the centrepiece of a forthcoming exhibition. I am delighted that this innovative project has received national recognition."