The Victor Hugo Centre has raised 75% of their fundraising goal.
With the addition of a generous gift from Guy and Julia Hands, the Centre has now raised £7.5 million, with £5 million from local individuals, trusts and foundations, and £2.5m from the States’ matching grant. To further demonstrate their support for the Centre, the Hands have pledged a 10% match for all gifts donated towards our endowment target, up to a maximum of £250,000. This matching grant is intended to encourage donors and ensure the future sustainability and success of the Victor Hugo Centre.
“This is a significant milestone that demonstrates the enthusiasm and support of islanders who recognise the educational, cultural, economic and social benefits the Centre will bring – we are making great progress towards our ultimate fundraising goal of £10 million,” said Victor Hugo Centre chair, Larry Malcic.
“Our vision is to create both the Centre, and an endowment to ensure its future success. I am very grateful to Guy and Julia Hands for providing a matching grant challenge to help us achieve our goal.
“We are incredibly thankful to everyone who has donated or pledged their support. This moment marks another meaningful step towards the opening of the Victor Hugo Centre, a shared space for creativity, learning and celebration that will be enjoyed by our creative community, schools, islanders, and visitors alike, and will stand as a testament to the extraordinary support of our island community.”
The last fundraising announcement came during a private gala in November 2025 when globally renowned artist and guest of honour Nicole Farhi CBE, alongside her husband playwright Sir David Hare, gifted her life-size bronze sculpture of Hugo to the Centre.
Following this week’s birthday event, the bust is being unveiled to the public today at the Guernsey Museum. This will remain its home until the Victor Hugo Centre opens.
Helen Glencross, Head of Culture & Heritage Services, added: “Victor Hugo is a key part of our island’s history, and we continue to see his legacy across Guernsey even 120 years since he first arrived.
“People often think of Hugo as an older man like the famous Rodin bust that we have had on display for years at Guernsey Museum. However, when he came to Guernsey, he was in the prime of his life – something that Nicole Farhi has captured in this new artwork. We are proud to work with the Victor Hugo Centre and display the bust in 2026 and beyond, until they open.”
Pictured: Nicole Farhi CBE and the Victor Hugo bust. Credit: Paul Chambers Photography.
