First-ever member of Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum

The great-grandson of the founders of the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum in Bournemouth, Peter Stebbing, has become the first member of the museum’s new membership scheme.

The new membership scheme, the first in the museum’s 89-year history, offers members a chance to help support and be a part of the future of the historic and internationally-renowned museum.

We are delighted that Peter and his wife Sue have joined as our first-ever members,”  said Heritage Manager for Bournemouth Borough Council, Sue Hayward. “Their personal connection with the founders and history of this fabulous museum and their invaluable support means a great deal to us.”

The museum offers two types of annual membership, a standard membership, the Friends of East Cliff Hall, with prices starting from £12.50, and the higher level membership, the Russell-Cotes Circle, prices start from £35.  Both offer members’ special privileges such as free admission, three newsletters a year, and bespoke lectures and talks. Members of the Russell-Cotes Circle are entitled to extra benefits, which include, free admission for a guest, exclusive Victorian event on Lady Russell-Cotes’ birthday, early booking for ticketed museum events and more. For a full list of the membership benefits and prices please visit the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum website www.russell-cotes.bournemouth.gov.uk

The new membership scheme was launched at the private view of the new exhibition Stripped: the body beautiful on 5 July 2011. The exhibition runs from 10 June 2011 – 1 January 2012 and features work from sculptor, Jon Edgar, and artist, Jonathan Yeo, as well as sculptures, paintings and objects from the museum’s collection.

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Notes:

Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum:

Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, Bournemouth, UK, is one of the most fascinating and unique museums in the world.

Comprising art galleries and museum, a licensed café, a shop and a children’s area, it is an ideal place for learning, exploring and socialising.

Housed in one of the last Victorian villas in Bournemouth, East Cliff Hall, it was originally designed and lived in by Sir Merton (1835-1921) and Lady (1835-1920) Russell-Cotes, two Victorian collectors and travel enthusiasts.

It is situated on the dramatic cliff top over-looking seven miles of award-winning beaches.

Admission charges apply.

For more information visit www.russell-cotes.bournemouth.gov.uk

For additional information and images contact:

Tricia Walker

Email: tricia.walker@bournemouth.gov.uk

Direct Dial: 01202 451806

www.russell-cotes.bournemouth.gov.uk