The images on the front and back covers of the newsletter give an indication of the distance Somerset House has come in the last two years. The first celebration of 2000 was the opening of the Gilbert Collection in April. This was followed by the Grand opening of Somerset House in the presence of the Queen Mother on 25 May. In late August the Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court was inaugurated and people have been playing in the fountains ever since. Life in the Courtauld has been accompanied by crashing and banging throughout and it is wonderful to see such excellent results of all the hard work. Looking to the near future, the Hermitage Rooms will open in November. The Courtauld is cultivating links with the Hermitage, both at home and in St. Petersburg as reported by former students Catherine Phillips and Mike O'Mahony.

The review of the Museum and the Project lecture series by Caroline Elam has highlighted how the lectures gave a fascinating insight into the thinking of many of Britain's top museum directors in the greatest boom in museum construction since the 19th century.

We are as always grateful for the information former students send to CAFS. It is not always possible to thank each person personally for sending in information and comments but they are much appreciated.

Jane Ferguson
 Editor