Tristram Hunt, director of London's Victoria & Albert Museum, has been knighted by King Charles III on the UK's 2026 New Year Honors list for his "services to museums." Hunt, a former Member of Parliament and shadow education secretary, has led the V&A since 2017, overseeing major exhibitions and expanding the museum's international presence through initiatives like V&A East. Other arts figures recognized include Ekow Eshun (OBE), art historian Marcia Pointon (OBE), Jo Quinton-Tulloch (OBE), Janet Blake (OBE), Susan Bowers (MBE), and Hilary McGrady (CBE).
The knighthood underscores the UK government's recognition of museum leadership as a significant public service, elevating the profile of cultural institutions in national honors. Hunt's award, alongside those of other arts professionals, highlights the growing importance placed on museum directors and cultural heritage experts in shaping the UK's cultural landscape and international cultural diplomacy.