19 October 08
www.vam.ac.uk/microsites/cold-war-modern
A fascinating exhibition that examines contemporary design, architecture, film and popular culture on both sides of the Iron Curtain during the cold war era.
The exhibition examines the way that the memorable forms of the '50s, '60s and '70s were shaped by the Cold War, as well as by other influences, such as the rise of consumerism, the postwar reconstruction of Europe and the rapid advances in technology that, as well as putting a man on the moon, reshaped the home, both inside and out!
Over 300 exhibits have been brought together to help illustrate these ground-breaking times. The USA, the Soviet Union, Czechoslovakia, Poland, Italy, France, East & West Germany, Cuba and the UK are all represented with iconic examples of communication graphics, fashion, product and furniture design. The curators trawled all over Eastern Europe looking for objects to display and some have never been seen outside the artist’s studio!
Highly influential Artists and Designers of the time added their weight to the campaigns for peace, harmony and modern design for all. They played a central role in the 'Cold War battle of images'. Their work was used for propaganda, and their actions and opinions highly prized. Left, Picasso's Scarf to commemorate the 'World Festival of Students for Peace', Berlin, 1951.The Cold War was more than just an arms race, it was a cultural battle between superpowers determined to prove their superiority.
...It was also a joy to find samples of work by Charles-Édouard Jeanneret-Gris, commonly known as Le Corbusier - (1887-1965). His career spanned eight decades and his creative out-put was admired and collected the world over. Formally an Architect, Le Corbusier was also a prolific furniture designer, urban planner, illustrator and writer. Images above show: 'La Femme et le Moineau', a wonderful tapestry from 1957. Also the classic 'LC3 Grand Lounge chair' produced for the 1929 Lifestyle show in Paris. And finally, the Chapel of Notre Dame du Haut at Ronchamp, France. Completed in 1954, this building is considered by many to one of the most important Architectural wonders of the 20th century.
Another brilliant show from The V&A, beautifully staged and really informative... do allow a good 1.5 hours+ to enjoy all 8 sections.
9 out of 10
