'A huge loss': Curator of award-winning Gairloch Museum in Wester Ross stands down after almost a decade
A WOMAN who guided a Wester Ross museum through a massive redevelopment and towards an industry 'Oscar' has stood down.
Dr Karen Buchanan has been curator of Gairloch Museum for almost a decade.
Her "vision, commitment and expertise" has been credited with the museum's move to a near-derelict Cold war era council bunker which was redeveloped into an award-winning space which has become a key visitor attraction.
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The board of Gairloch Museum said in a statement: "After almost ten years as our curator, Dr Karen Buchanan has resigned in order to pursue other interests and to take on new challenges.
"Karen’s vision, commitment and expertise were integral to the conversion of the almost derelict Highland Council roads depot, of Cold War origin, into a stunning heritage hub.
"The outstanding reviews of our visitors, from far and near, since its opening in 2019, are a testimony to her achievements. The project gained the respect of sector-leading organisations and the award of Art Fund Museum of the Year 2020 brought Gairloch Museum to national attention. We wish her well in the future."
The Art Fund Museum of the Year competition has been described as "the biggest museum prize in the world".
Judges said they were captivated by the story of the rebirth of this "truly special museum". .The citation described it as "a tale of people-power, determination, and local pride".
It added: "The museum’s move in 2019 to a new home – not a grand new build but a re-purposed nuclear bunker – transformed a village eyesore into an important visitor attraction. It was the culmination of an eight-year, £2.4 million redevelopment project realised by this community and more than 120 volunteers.
"The redisplay of the museum’s collection which encapsulates the history, culture, beauty and character of Gairloch and its new home have reaminated the village’s pride in its heritage, created a buzzing new community hub, and produced a sustainable cultural landmark for generations of visitors to enjoy."
The honour was shared with Aberdeen Art Gallery and Towner Eastbourne in Eastbourne.
The museum's Facebook page has been inundated with good wishes.
"A huge loss for Gairloch Museum," wrote one.
Another stated: "Having worked with Karen I know how committed she was and she'll be a hard act to follow. Best wishes for the future to both Karen and the museum."
Another said: "This is really sad. Karen, you will be missed! What a loss to the community and the whole area. Congratulations on all you’ve achieved."
