V&A East Storehouse Opens in London
The Victoria and Albert Museum unveiled the V&A East Storehouse, transforming a former Olympic broadcast centre into a public space housing 250,000 artefacts. Director Tristram Hunt emphasizes accessibility and design education, showcasing items from ancient tapestries to Keith Moon’s drum kit. The project symbolizes a democratization of cultural heritage
Country to Couture Celebrates Indigenous Fashion
Australia’s Country to Couture runway event marks its 10th anniversary, featuring 22 collections under themes like “Threads of Country” and “Rising Colours: The BLAK Party.” Coinciding with the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair, the event highlights Indigenous designers’ contributions to fashion. The National Indigenous Fashion Awards will honor 38 finalists across seven categories.
Od Arts Festival Explores Rural-Industrial Intersections
Somerset’s Od Arts Festival, themed “Thinking in Circles,” features 24 artists examining cycles of nature, migration, and industry. Highlights include Libby Bove’s “Museum of Roadside Magic” and Simon Lee Dicker’s UV-lit haystack installation, reflecting on rural traditions and global modernity.
Banksy Unveils Personal Mural in Marseille
Street artist Banksy revealed a new mural in Marseille, France, depicting a lighthouse with the phrase “I Want to Be What You Saw in Me.” The artwork, announced on May 29, is noted for its uncharacteristically personal message, sparking discussions about its meaning and the artist’s intent.
Chrysler Building Listed for Sale
New York City’s iconic Chrysler Building, an Art Deco skyscraper completed in 1930, has been put up for sale. Once the world’s tallest building, it has faced disrepair in recent years. The sale raises questions about the preservation of historic architecture in urban landscapes.
Jim Morrison Bust Recovered After Decades
A 300-pound bust of Jim Morrison, stolen from his grave in Paris’s Père Lachaise cemetery in 1988, has been recovered by French police. The sculpture, created for the tenth anniversary of the Doors frontman’s death, was missing for over three decades, and its return is significant for fans and historians.
Brontë Birthplace Opens to Public
The birthplace of Charlotte, Emily, and Anne Brontë in Bradford, England, has opened to the public following renovations. The sisters lived there until 1820 before moving to a nearby parsonage. The site offers insights into the early lives of the famed literary family.
Exhibition Honors Forgotten Black Abolitionists
Cambridge University’s Fitzwilliam Museum launched an exhibition featuring contemporary portraits of overlooked Black abolitionists. The display aims to recognize the contributions of these individuals who fought to end slavery but received little attention during their lifetimes.
Barbie’s Evolving Footwear Reflects Societal Changes
A new study reveals that by the 2020s, only 40% of Barbie dolls were designed with permanently arched feet for high heels, indicating a shift towards more realistic and diverse representations in toys. The change reflects evolving societal standards and inclusivity in design.
Ava DuVernay Receives Smithsonian’s Great Americans Medal
Filmmaker Ava DuVernay was awarded the Smithsonian’s Great Americans Medal, becoming the first director, writer, and producer to earn the honor. The award recognizes her lifetime contributions that embody American ideals and ideas.