The Victoria and Albert Museum (or V&A as it is affectionately known) is a dedicated space for art and design. With a permanent collection of more than 2 million items and a host of high profile exhibitions, you’re sure never to be too far from a stylish morning or afternoon. Here are just some of the shows that are set to be a hot ticket this month…
Maqdala 1868
Until 30th June 2019
Having been retrieved from the siege of Emperor Tweodros II in 1868, this selection of items represents both a significant (and controversial) acquisition drawn from both British and Ethiopian history. This display showcases pieces which were taken from the fortress in Maqdala and also connects them to the wider Abyssinia Campaign of the era. Each piece is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, and historical context is also provided to help visitors understand their significance. For fans of great design staying at the Montcalm London, this is a must-see.
Portmeirion: Pottery Trendsetter
Until 28th July 2019
British pottery brand Portmeirion has become a major design success story, having crafted an innovative design for over 60 years. The brand has managed to outlive many of its early rivals, despite being lesser-known. To mark the centenary of the birth of its founder, Susan Williams-Ellis (1918-2007), iconic designs include ‘Botanic Garden’, ‘Totem’ and ‘Magic City’, all of which are on display here. Whether you’re an established fan of pottery and ceramics, or simply want to find out more about this art form while also enjoying Montcalm spa deals whilst you stay at The Montcalm Marble Arch, this is a fantastic place to start.
A Home for All: Six Experiments in Social Housing
Until 26th May 2019
Architecture has long been considered by many as the saving grace of the current housing crisis, but how to solve it is still a matter of great debate. This exhibition takes a look at six experimental designs which offer to transform the way we view homes forever, taking established architectural principles and turning them on their head. With each project sourced from the RIBA and V&A, each design offers crucial lessons which could be applied to today’s housing crisis for the benefit of those most in need.
Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams
Until 1st September 2019
Designer Christian Dior helped change the way the world looked at women’s fashion, with pioneering new styles which can still be seen in fashion today. Items in the exhibit cover over 70 years of fashion, dating from 1947 right up to the present day. As one of the most influential fashion figures of the 20th century, the notoriety of the fashion house itself continues – as does Dior’s self-stated love of all things British. While staying at The Montcalm Marble Arch hotel, this is a wonderful way to see decades of style in one place.
Mary Quant Exhibition
Until 16th February 2020
Fashion icon Mary Quant proved instrumental in the development of new and exciting styles throughout the 1960s, particularly when pioneering the mini-skirt. This exhibition takes a closer look at how Quant pioneered fashion staples including everything from hot pants to brightly-coloured tights, accessories and make-up. There are more than 200 items on display, which include a number of objects which have never been seen before but are sourced from Quant’s own personal fashion archive.
