Actually it was noticed - I put him in touch with Jim for MultiBit, but it didn't really go anywhere.
I'm pretty sure nearly all wallet apps (except maybe Hive) could use a facelift. The problem is right now I guess most users aren't using Bitcoin-Qt anymore. So the question is where should the new UI work be done?
IMO, as you said, Multibit would probably be a better candidate than Bitcoin-Qt, unless Bitcoin-Qt suddenly starts implementing some stuff that would make it working for the average user on the long run while still contributing to the network. I guess that all that is required is a developer somewhere to dedicate enough time on this to prepare patches and work on them until they are reviewed and accepted (assuming Jim also wants this).
Nice job! Have you tried contacting the Bitcoin foundation?
I didn't post this on the Foundation's forum, I guess this isn't the best place to expect a developer will see it and start working on it.
