Jibber Jabber!
Exposed! The Story of Swimwear
Posted by .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) on 06 August, 2009 in Swimwear | 0 Comments
Movie sirens, aquatic stars, bathing beauties, models, athletes, sporting icons, swimmers and designers all played their part in the evolution of the modern swimsuit. Blurring the boundaries between underwear and outerwear, the swimsuit continues to make shock waves.
The travelling exhibition ‘exposed! the story of swimwear’ places Australian swimwear in a global context, showing how Australian swimmers and swimwear designers responded to their environment, to the strong local swimming and beach culture, and to international fashion trends.
A key part of the exhibition is the ‘woollen mermaids’ section where contemporary Australian designers created cutting-edge “little black swimsuits” using wool/lycra jersey fabric which recalls the use of wool in early 20th century swimsuits. Brands including Zimmerman, Seafolly, Tigerlily, Jets, Anna & Boy, Hotel Bondi Swim, AussieBum, Watersun and Flamingo Sands all created swimsuits that are now on display in the exhibition.
This exhibition is currently at the Australian National Maritime Museum Sydney and entry is FREE.
From the 1900s swimwear evolved from hidden, almost medicinal outfits for bathing and soaking to more functional, fashionable garments - and an essential item of leisurewear. Australian designs reflected changes in taste, customs and international trends.
The exhibition explores popular culture, and the designers and personalities who influenced swimwear development. Before 1910 Australia’s mermaid Annette Kellerman and her contemporaries created a new modern look, not only for the swimsuit but for women.
‘exposed! the story of swimwear’ highlights the designs and designers, past and present, at the forefront of Australian swimwear fashion.
This exhibition has been developed by the National Maritime Museum and is supported by Visions of Australia, an Australian Government Program supporting touring exhibitions by providing funding assistance for the development and touring of cultural material across Australia.
Exhibition itinerary:
Australian National Maritime Museum Sydney
2 July - 25 October 2009
West Australian Maritime Museum Fremantle
November 2009 - February 2010
South Australian Maritime Museum Port Adelaide
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February - May 2010
Queensland Museum South Bank Brisbane
May - August 2010
Museum of Riverina Wagga Wagga
August - November 2010
Newcastle Regional Museum
November 2010 - February 2011
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