The Victoria and Albert Museum has unveiled its revamped Design 1990-Now galleries, showcasing an eclectic collection of 250 objects that reflect the complexities of contemporary life. Opened to the public this week, the exhibition spans six thematic areas, including crisis and conflict, housing, and identity, illustrating how design influences and shapes our everyday existence.
A Kaleidoscope of Modernity
Among the treasures on display are an original Apple II computer, an 80s boombox, Nigeria’s 2018 World Cup kit, and fragments of Edward Snowden’s laptop—each telling a unique story within the tapestry of modern design. The galleries eschew a linear timeline, opting instead for thematic exploration that provokes reflection on how past designs resonate with present realities.
Curator Corinna Gardner described the intention behind the exhibition as a way to immerse visitors in the 21st century. “We want to ensure that everyone who steps into these spaces wakes up to the present,” she stated during a preview. This approach not only contextualises today’s designs within historical frameworks but also encourages contemplation of a collective future shaped by innovation.
Themes of Conflict and Resilience
The exhibition’s narrative is underscored by poignant connections between past and present. For instance, a poster from 1992 calling for “No More Racist Murders” stands alongside a modern tribute to Eric Garner, a victim of police brutality in 2014. Such pairings highlight a recurring struggle against systemic injustice, reminding viewers that the fight for equality is far from over.
One striking section, dedicated to women in the workforce, juxtaposes a power suit from 1986 with a bra designed to circumvent searches in Chinese factories, and fast-fashion jeans linked to the Rana Plaza disaster in Bangladesh. This thematic collision illustrates how design often reflects deeper societal issues, revealing the threads of history that connect different eras.
Public Participation in Design
The exhibition also features 11 objects sourced through the Rapid Response programme, which invites public suggestions for contemporary items to be included in the museum’s collection. Highlights include stamps from Snake Island, symbolising Ukrainian defiance against Russian aggression, and a “life medal” awarded to environmental activists imprisoned for their beliefs.
These contributions are emblematic of the changing landscape of design, where everyday objects can become symbols of resistance and hope. Gardner emphasised the importance of these items, stating, “They provoke a conversation about what we value and how we navigate our world through design.”
The Role of Technology and Communication
A crucial focus of the exhibition is the evolution of data and communication design over the last quarter-century. Among the artefacts displayed is Edward Snowden’s laptop, a stark reminder of the ongoing debate around privacy and surveillance in the digital age. Gardner noted that this item represents a pivotal moment in history, encapsulating the tensions surrounding public access to information.
Another highlight is an early baby monitor crafted by Isamu Noguchi, inspired by the infamous Lindbergh kidnapping. This object serves as a reminder of how design has evolved to cater to the emotional needs of families, balancing safety with modernity.
Why it Matters
The V&A’s reimagined galleries are more than a collection of objects; they are a cultural commentary on the human experience in the 21st century. By intertwining themes of conflict, identity, and resilience with everyday design, the exhibition invites visitors to reflect on their own lives and the role of design in shaping societal narratives. In a world increasingly defined by rapid change and technological advancement, this exploration of contemporary design serves as a vital reminder of the stories embedded within the things we often overlook, urging us to consider the future we wish to create.
