Diving Deep: The Evolution of Swimming Over 100 Years

London’s Design Museum is currently hosting Splash! A Century of Swimming and Style, a captivating exhibition curated by amber Butchart. Since its opening on March 28, 2025, the exhibit invites visitors to explore the multifaceted world of swimming, examining its evolution from a primal human activity to a sophisticated blend of sport, design, and cultural phenomenon. The exhibition is scheduled to run until August 17th, offering a extensive look at how our relationship with water has transformed over the past century.

From Pools to Fashion: Exploring the Exhibition’s diverse Themes

The exhibition meticulously dissects our evolving connection with water, showcasing how it has influenced various aspects of life. From advancements in competitive swimming and the design of specialized equipment to the architectural marvels of swimming facilities and the ever-changing landscape of swimwear fashion,Splash! leaves no stone unturned. The exhibit is thoughtfully organized into three primary sections:

• The Swimming Pool: Exploring the design and social impact of these aquatic spaces.
• Lidos: Examining the cultural importance of outdoor swimming venues.
• Nature: Investigating the allure of open-water swimming and its connection to the surroundings.

Spanning from the Roaring Twenties to the present day, the exhibition features over 200 artifacts, providing a rich tapestry of swimming’s social, cultural, technological, and environmental contexts.

Iconic Memorabilia: A Glimpse into Swimming History

What treasures await visitors within this aquatic-themed exhibition? Among the highlights is the iconic red swimsuit worn by Pamela Anderson in the hit television series Baywatch. This piece serves as a reminder of the show’s cultural impact, even amidst the actress’s later shift towards a more natural, no makeup beliefs.

The exhibition also features a curated selection of Speedo swimwear, including a vintage men’s suit from the 1980s and the controversial LZR Racer, a full-body suit banned from competition due to its performance-enhancing properties. Moreover, visitors can marvel at a remarkably preserved early example of the bikini, showcasing the evolution of swimwear design.

Beyond the Wardrobe: Medals, Models, and Photographic Art

Beyond swimwear, Splash! boasts a collection of notable historical artifacts. One such treasure is the Olympic gold medal won by Lucy Morton,a pioneer in women’s swimming. The exhibition also features a detailed architectural model of the London 2012 Aquatics Center,a stunning design by the late Zaha Hadid,showcasing the intersection of architecture and aquatic sports.

Adding an artistic dimension to the exhibition is a selection of photographs by Slovakian artist Mária Švarbová. Her captivating images capture swimmers within the pools of the former USSR, highlighting the geometric precision and aesthetic beauty of synchronized swimming.

The Enduring Appeal of Swimming

Swimming remains a popular activity worldwide. According to recent statistics, participation in swimming has seen a steady increase, with millions engaging in recreational and competitive swimming each year. This enduring appeal underscores the importance of exhibitions like Splash! in preserving and celebrating the rich history and cultural significance of swimming.