CATHERINE Howell, curator of the hugely popular Magic Worlds mounts a display of board games at the V & A Museum of Childhood later this year. The exhibition traces the evolution of their design from antiquity to the electronic gaming of the present day, culminating in an intriguing participatory game for all.
Alice in Wonderland chess set by Robin and Nell Dale, England, 1983.
Photograph © Victoria and Albert Museum, London
Family favourites such as Monopoly and Cluedo and enchanting games from the 18th and 19th centuries are displayed in an array of exhibits from around the world. This exhibition highlights the lasting legacy of historical board games and their value as important cultural, geographical and even scientific resources. It also focuses on the role of design as a visual stimulus and marketing strategy, and examines their enduring appeal today.
Pandemic by Matt Leacock, USA, 2008.
Photograph © Victoria and Albert Museum, London
by Miranda Charalambous
Game Plan, Board Games Rediscovered opens on October 8, 2016 and is on until April 23, 2017 at the V & A Museum of Childhood, London
Tags: board games > chess > childhood > craftsmanship > cultural > display > exhibition > exhibits > family > gaming > geographical > London > magic > marketing strategy > museum > Museum of Childhood > scientific > showcase > Victoria and Albert Museum > worlds
