Event, the experience design agency, is celebrating the opening of Everest Through the Lens. Designed by Event and displayed at the Royal Geographical Society on Exhibition Road, the centenary exhibition delves into the story behind the first attempts to summit Mount Everest.
Event was responsible for shaping the narrative and graphic design, as well as overseeing project design and delivery.
Featuring the films and photography of official expedition cinematographer Captain John Noel, the Royal Geographical Society will proudly display some of the foremost moving images to be made of Everest and the indigenous population calling the natural wonder their home.
Challenging narratives
Event says that the images being showcased in London were integral in shaping Everest and Tibetan culture in the public imagination.
The narrative of Everest Through the Lens looks to challenge the Eurocentric adventure story that enveloped Everest expeditions throughout the 20th century. The exhibition places uncomfortable geopolitical and racial power dynamics under the magnifying glass, delving into the aspects that shaped each expedition.
Visitors will learn about the complex social relationships between British explorers and local labourers including Tibetans, Sherpa and Bhotiya men and women.
Thoughtful design
Event carefully considered all aspects of the exhibition design to be reflective of the subject matter. For instance, in terms of materiality, the space was inspired by the plywood boxes which climbers would use to transport their supplies up the mountainside.
The colour palette for graphics features a vibrant blue, inspired by the shade which Noel used to colour some of his photography shots. Often found in his literature and advertisements for his films, the blue adds a contrasting dash of colour in an otherwise calm and relaxing space.
The exhibition is also futureproofed with its modular, demountable design and can be dismantled and deconstructed as required with ease.
Everest Through the Lens at the Royal Geographical Society is now open. The exhibition is open to the public until 20 January 2023.
Event recently announced it was appointed to work on the masterplan for New Science Centre Singapore, which will provide an enhanced visitor experience with the latest STEM exhibits and displays.
Photos: Event
