Harper Government Invests in Museum London

LONDON, ON, March 23, 2012 /PRNewswire/ - Visitors to Museum London will continue to have access to art and artifacts of national and local significance, thanks to an investment from the Government of Canada. This was announced today by Susan Truppe, Member of Parliament (London North Centre), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

Funding will allow the London Regional Art and Historical Museums (Museum London) to purchase and install new lighting and skylight shading systems in its exhibition galleries. The shading system will be custom-designed to complement the Museum's large skylights.

The new systems will allow the Museum to decrease its energy consumption and costs. With improved lighting control, the Museum will be able to better protect and display art work and artifacts in its various exhibitions.

"Our Government received a strong mandate from Canadians to invest in projects that improve the facilities of organizations like Museum London," said Minister Moore. "By supporting these organizations, our Government is delivering on its commitment to strengthen our economy and support our arts, culture, and heritage."

"Museum London is not only recognized for its terrific collection and presentation of visual art and artifacts, but also for the unique architecture of its building," said Ms. Truppe. "With this Government of Canada investment, the new light and shading system promises to make the Museum more energy-efficient while enhancing visitor experiences."

"Lighting is an incredibly important consideration for museums. The type and amount of light present in our exhibitions can have a significant impact on the integrity of artworks and artifacts, as well as the quality of the visitor experience," said Brian Meehan, Executive Director, Museum London. "We are extremely grateful to the Government of Canada for its support of this project."

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $474,600 through the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program seeks to improve physical conditions for artistic creativity and arts presentation or exhibition. It is also designed to increase access for Canadians to performing, visual, and media arts, and to museum collections and heritage displays.

SOURCE Canadian Heritage