Emma Hughes reviews “Splash! A Century of Swimming and Style” at the Design Museum, examining Britain’s swimming history from ancient baths to modern outdoor swims. The exhibit, curated by Amber Butchart, features three sections detailing the evolution of swimming culture, significant historical figures, and personal reflections on swimming. The show includes over 200 items and runs until August 17, 2023.
Emma Hughes explores swimming’s unique history in the Design Museum’s exhibit, “Splash! A Century of Swimming and Style”. Starting with early morning swimmers in Hyde Park’s Serpentine, the exhibit showcases swimming as a British pastime that fosters community. From the Roman Baths to the resurgence of outdoor swimming post-World War I, the journey highlights significant changes in swimming culture in Britain.
Curated by Amber Butchart, the exhibit features three sections: the pool, the lido, and nature. Swimming’s evolution includes the introduction of grand municipal baths aimed at public health. The appeal of beach holidays surged, as seen in vintage posters, while notable swimming achievements, like Lucy Morton’s Olympic gold medal, are displayed, revealing the stories behind iconic figures in swimming history.
Images of early Channel swimmers and the joyous ice-breaking swims at Hampstead Heath are central to the narrative. Roger Deakin’s reflection emphasises how swimming connects us to our primordial essence, creating a deep sense of belonging. The display hints at the contrast between access to nature and the structure needed to enjoy swimming.
The exhibit, showcasing over 200 items, provides a vibrant overview. While its analysis may feel superficial, Deakin’s views on swimming as a gateway to mysterious realms are highlighted. The show concludes with two short films exploring the experiences of female divers from South Korea and the Swim Dem Crew, accentuating the powerful, personal reasons for swimming and confronting fears in the process. The exhibit runs until August 17, with tickets starting at £14.38.
Overall, “Splash! A Century of Swimming and Style” offers a captivating exploration of Britain’s swimming history, highlighting its cultural significance and evolution through time. The exhibit successfully intertwines personal stories, historical contexts, and the joys of swimming, inspiring a deeper connection to water as both a natural and communal experience.
Original Source: www.countrylife.co.uk