The Red House Glass Cone has been shortlisted in the Creative Collections Award category in the Power of Place: Midlands Museum Awards

The prestigious award celebrates innovation and excellence in museum collections across the Midlands, recognising the Cone’s outstanding work in creative interpretation, community engagement, and the imaginative use of its collections to inspire audiences.

The cone was recognised for its interpretation the Stuart Collection, on loan from Fiskars the owners, under the care of V&A Wedgwood. The collection includes 7335 pieces of glassware, 34 pattern books, original artwork by leading artists Dame Laura Knight and Eric Ravilious for Stuart glassware from 1934 plus 14 boxes of archival material.

The team took this material and made it feel pertinent and accessible to a new audience. Over just six months between April - September 2025 they put on new displays at the Red House Glass Cone, received a visit from the Dame Laura Knight Society and with the help of a dedicated group of museum volunteers researched the collection and discovered many historic links, including the pattern book featuring original designs for Stuart Crystal glassware designed for the White Star Line, builders of the Titanic. They also provided photos used by Ian Dury - former Crystal Stuart Manager - for his book, A Jewel in the Rhymney Valley which tells the story of the Stuart Crystal Pengam Glassworks in Abercoed South Wales.

Councillor Damian Corfield Cabinet Member for neighbourhoods, said:

“This shortlisting is a testament to the dedication and creativity of the team at the Red House Glass Cone and the invaluable contributions of the volunteers and specialists like Ian who give their time for free in order to share their passion for glass history and heritage. Their commitment to making heritage accessible and engaging for all continues to set a high standard for museums across the region.

“The Power of Place awards highlight the vital role museums play in shaping local identity and fostering cultural pride. The Red House Glass Cone’s shortlisting reflects its continued impact as a centre for heritage, learning, and creativity.”

The winners will be announced on Wednesday 12 November at Thinktank, Birmingham.