Cold War Modern: Design 1945-1970

The Cold War era was one of high tensions and exceptional creativity, which touched every aspect of life from everyday goods to the highest arenas of human achievement in science and culture. From the space race to the arms race, the technology of the period had a profound effect upon everything from the arts of protest to the design of the home. Concentrating on the highly volatile years from 1945 to 1975 , the exhibition examines the key themes of the period including the task of reconstruction in Europe after the war and the rise of consumerism. The strong influence of the Cold War upon popular culture will be shown through graphics, fashion, film and product design.