MUSEUM OF THE YEAR 2022
MUSEUM OF THE YEAR 2022
HOLMEGAARD WORKS OF WONDERS WINS A MAJOR INTERNATIONAL AWARD AT THE “OSCARS” OF THE MUSEUM WORLD
In May 2022, the EMYA awards were held in Tartu, Estonia, bringing together 60 of Europe’s leading museums. Holmegaard Works of Wonders was awarded the prestigious prize for European Museum of the Year in the category “Environmental Sustainability.”
The awards recognise excellence across categories such as Europe’s best museum, the most inclusive, the most bold and experimental, and the museum making the strongest contribution to sustainability in its surrounding environment.
Holmegaard Works of Wonders took the top honour in the “Environmental Sustainability” category.
NEW LIFE IN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY
Holmegaard Works of Wonders received the award in recognition of its unique ability to preserve the legacy of glassmaking while transforming the site into a dynamic centre for creativity and artistic activity, deeply connected to the surrounding community.
The award-winning museum is a newly established institution that collaborates closely with its local community, serving as a hub for creative and sustainable art and culture.
The museum is rooted in a strong local identity, closely tied to an artistic tradition with both local and international reach. It has succeeded in preserving this legacy not just as a former factory and brand, but as a vibrant hub for intangible heritage and creative glassmaking.
A LONG JOURNEY OF DEDICATION
All nominated museums across Europe were visited multiple times by the judging committee, including one anonymous visit.
“This is the highest recognition we could hope for, because it comes from our peers in the museum world,” says museum director Keld Møller Hansen.
“It acknowledges both our exhibitions and our professional work, which makes it incredibly meaningful. It feels like completing a year-long exam – and finally passing it.”
FACTS ABOUT EMYA
The European Museum of the Year Award (EMYA), established in 1977, celebrates excellence across museums of all sizes. It highlights innovation, visitor experience, community engagement, democracy, sustainability, and the ability to bridge cultural, social and political divides.
In its 45-year history, only three Danish museums have received the award – including the Wadden Sea Centre near Ribe and the National Museum of Denmark.