I visited the V&A Dundee at the weekend to see the Ocean Liners, Speed and Style exhibition, which I enjoyed. There is a good range of exhibits that tell the story of the ocean liner. I was particular impressed with the display of promotion posters. I also liked the "Les Sports" wall panel from the Normandy. Life style exhibits showed the chairs that would have been on deck and the swimming costumes that would have been worn. There was a film showing a fashion show circa 1930's and gowns that would have been worn by the wealthy ladies, not forgetting a magnificent Cartier Tiara.
It was good to see that recognition was given to Scottish (primarily Clyde) shipyards that had built a fifth of the World's ships in the 20th century and John Brown's Clydebank was named as the most famous of these shipyards. A model of the Queen Elizabeth was on display as well as the plating model of the ship's hull.
The patterns used to cast the outer casing for one of the
high pressure steam turbines on the QE2 was on display and given quite a prominent position.
I appreciated seeing the "Shipbuilding on the Clyde Riveters" by Stanley Spencer, but was not sure if this was a print as I believe the original is in the Imperial War Museum. But either way it was fitting to display this image.
The V&A Museum I was not over enamoured, but I would not like to make judgement based on only a couple of visits, especially as the venue was particularly busy.
The main thing I did not like was that when entering the building and climbing the stairs, I expected to turn around and see magnificent views up the River Tay, but you only see the views if you are booked into the restaurant, which does have glass windows and a good view. There is a terrace, which was shut off to the public at the weekend and there are a couple of window view points, but apart from that you are looking at wooden slats. The intention is that the building will be a community resource and if this aspect is successful that is a positive. When we visited on the Friday a young woman was playing the guitar and singing, which I think links in with the community theme. I enjoyed sitting and listening to the music and the acoustics of the building were good for entertainers. Looking forward to hearing what other V&A exhibitions will be brought to Dundee.
In addition to the V&A the Discovery exhibition and tour of the ship is worth a visit.
