Cunard has launched Sea Views Exhibition to commemorate its century-long history and proud British maritime heritage.
Curated by British photographer and filmmaker Mary McCartney, the exhibition features photographs from Cunard's photography archive and images submitted by past and present guests. The exhibition marks two significant milestones in Cunard's history - over 100 years ago, the cruise line introduced onboard photography, and the centenary of the first-ever round the world voyage on Cunard's ship, Laconia, which departed on November 21, 1922, and returned to New York on March 30, 1923, after calling at 22 ports.
The exhibition showcases never-before-seen imagery that captures the dynamic changes in fashion, food, and interior design since the 1920s. It features a snapshot of Cunard's most glamorous and esteemed guests, including Elizabeth Taylor, Rita Hayworth, Bing Crosby, and Nelson Mandela. The Sea Views Exhibition also includes hundreds of personal highlights submitted by Cunard passengers worldwide, showcasing fascinating moments from families emigrating to new continents, milestone anniversaries, and unexpected guest encounters.
Mary McCartney's selection of images for the exhibition includes troops walking on board Queen Mary in Sydney during the Second World War, Nelson Mandela sailing on Queen Elizabeth 2, and Sir Winston Churchill operating the controls on Queen Elizabeth with a cigar in hand. Other notable guests featured in the exhibition include Phyllis Calvert and husband Peter Murray-Hill, actors, with their daughter, Auriol, and cowboy movie star Tom Mix riding his horse Tony down the gangway on a trip to England.
Mary McCartney says: "Curating the Sea Views Exhibition for Cunard has been a fulfilling project for me as a photographer and filmmaker. It was a joy to dig deep into the archives and discover never-before-seen photographs that capture the essence of Cunard's signature moments, showcasing the glamour, elegance, and adventures families and friends shared together".
"It was not just about showcasing the history, but also celebrating the millions of travellers who have embarked on unforgettable voyages across the globe. As I went through the archives and read the stories submitted by passengers from all corners of the world, I was struck by the strong sense of community and connection that Cunard has fostered over the years. It was an honour to bring those stories to life through the exhibition." Continues Mary.
