A MUSEUM project designed to challenge young people’s view of art is to expand thanks to a “substantial” sum from The Hunter Foundation.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum has received an award from the Foundation to build on the success of The Centre of New Enlightenment (TCoNE).

Bosses plan to design a pioneering, interactive learning experience for all visitors.

The first stage of the redesign is underway as Glasgow Museums appoints a Digital Curator to lead the project.

The aim is to deliver a one-of-a-kind, smartphone-based cultural and educational experience for the one million people who visit Kelvingrove Museum each year.

The TCoNE space within Kelvingrove will also be modernised.

Sir Tom Hunter, founder of The Hunter Foundation, said: “It’s a privilege to continue to support the exceptional work of Glasgow Museums and in turn upgrade a facility inspired by my dad, Campbell who’s absolute belief was that, with a little bit of inspiration we can all make a positive difference to the world.

“In THF our fundamental belief is that opportunity should prevail for all – in a small way that’s what T-Cone delivers, hence our ongoing support.”

TCoNE opened in July 2006, when Kelvingrove Museum reopened after a £27.6 million, three-year refurbishment.

Funded by Sir Tom Hunter, it was created to improve the emotional, intellectual and physical access to Glasgow’s collection.

The TCoNE experience, which was shortlisted in 2009 for the prestigious the Art Prize, was particularly intended for smaller groups of pupils at risk of disengagement from school.

Visitors used a palmtop computer to undertake challenges and mini-games around the museum, collecting data and responding to artefacts.

The updated TCoNE experience will continue to work with facilitated groups.

Chairman of Glasgow Life, Archie Graham, said: “Glasgow Museums are free for everyone to enjoy and learn from the rich heritage in our care.

“The collections belong to the people of Glasgow and we want to make them as accessible to as many people as possible.

“This incredibly generous award from The Hunter Foundation is wonderful news.

“The ethos of TCoNE remains unchanged, however in the 10 years since Kelvingrove reopened the technology has moved on considerably.

“This donation allows Glasgow Museums to appoint a team that will rise to the challenge of creating a new learning experience utilising modern day technology and design.”