Insights into the Design of Young V&A’s ‘Making Egypt’ Exhibition

Designing the Sunshade

The sunshade structure exemplifies simplicity in design; it consists of two wooden pieces fastened into an ‘X’ shape, topped with cloth and featuring a distinctive hanging flap. A central pole provides support, crafted from robust timber sourced from coppicer Guy Lambourne. To refine this, collaboration with woodworker Alex Worsfold ensured the optimal diameter for the project.

Thematic Canopies of Communication

The exhibition highlights three themes in the ‘Communicating’ section: drawing, writing, and color, each brought to life under specially commissioned canopies. John Philip-Sage, of Spreeeng, hand-illustrated these elements, drawing inspiration from the intricate patterns found on ancient tomb ceilings, which themselves echo the textiles of ancient Egypt.

Uncovering Hidden Messages

In the writing canopy, a hidden message curated by Benjamin Hinson emerges for those adept in reading hieroglyphs. This cheeky phrase—‘I will make you love writing more than your mother’—is an allusion to the ancient Egyptian text known as the Satire of the Trades.

The Making of Everyday Objects

As the day winds down in the city, the exhibition’s final segment, ‘Making’, delves into everyday life and its artifacts, underscoring both form and function. Ranging from a single bead to a 1:1 scale replica of a pyramid block, the displays emphasize tactile experiences that invoke connections to ancient materials.

Material Exploration

Clay and earth manifest through various artifacts in this section, including shabtis (figurines intended for the afterlife), jars, and vases. Collaboration with Madoka Ellis of 121 Collective allowed the team to learn about necessary construction techniques, such as ramming earth and utilizing crushed waste bricks.

Innovative Clay Panels

The final clay panels frame videos that document the processes of carving stone and molding faience, a ceramic paste made of quartz, ash, and metal salts. The use of unfired structural blocks, or ‘strocks,’ fashioned from chopped straw and earth, allows for creative seating and tabletop designs throughout the exhibit. Stacking them into engaging arcs achieves a cozy atmosphere between showcases.

Reflecting on Ancient Design Practices

By referring to the proportional sizes of archaeological sites, particularly Amarna—famed for its glass and pottery production—visitors seated at the amulet activity table find themselves on a structure that mirrors the dimensions of an authentic ancient Egyptian kiln. This captivating link to the past can ignite a passion for history among attendees.

Understanding Craft and Materiality

The design process offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the craft and materiality aspects that often go overlooked. Despite the proliferation of digital tools today, reflecting on how these ancient practices influenced modern design remains pertinent. The exhibition’s very existence raises the question: in three millennia, what will resonate from our current society?

Concluding Thoughts

As a nod to design ingenuity, the Making Egypt exhibition serves as a compelling reminder that stories and creations from past eras continue to resonate with contemporary audiences. Visitors are encouraged to ponder what legacy today’s culture will leave for future generations.

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In summary, the Young V&A’s Making Egypt exhibition highlights the importance of thoughtful design and material choices in creating an engaging experience for visitors. By mirroring the past with the present, this exhibition not only educates but also inspires curiosity about the ancient world, while modern transportation solutions such as GetTransfer.com ensure seamless journeys for today’s travelers.