Exploring Ageing: The Wellcome Collection's "The Coming of Age" Exhibition

The Wellcome Collection's upcoming exhibition, "The Coming of Age," aims to address contemporary anxieties surrounding ageing and longevity. Opening soon, the exhibit features a range of artworks and installations that reflect societal attitudes towards the elderly and the complexities of growing older in a world where life expectancy is increasing.

The Guardian

The exhibition opens against a backdrop of changing perceptions about ageing, particularly in societies like Japan, where the government has recognized centenarians with silver sake cups since 1963. As the number of individuals reaching 100 years old has surged, the traditional gifts have shifted to more affordable materials, symbolizing the evolving societal views on ageing. Curator Shamita Sharmacharja notes that while older generations are respected for their contributions, they are also seen as vulnerable and a financial burden on state resources.

The Guardian

Shamita Sharmacharja, the exhibition curator, emphasizes the need to confront the realities of ageing, stating that the pandemic has highlighted societal inequalities related to age. Artist Serena Korda contributes to the exhibit with her work "Wild Apples," which challenges negative stereotypes of older women through a feminist lens. Korda's personal experiences with perimenopause inform her artistic exploration, aiming to reclaim the narrative around older female figures.

The Guardian

The exhibition showcases a variety of artworks that explore the theme of ageing from multiple angles. Sebald Beham’s "The Fountain of Youth" serves as a historical reference to humanity's long-standing desire for longevity, while contemporary pieces like Sam Taylor-Johnson’s "Still Life" illustrate the inevitability of decay. Additionally, Maija Tammi's work examines the concept of agelessness through the lens of regenerative organisms, prompting visitors to reflect on the meaning of time and ageing.

The Guardian

Despite the exhibition's intent to foster discussions about ageing, there are concerns regarding the portrayal of older individuals. Korda critiques the unrealistic expectations placed on women as they age, highlighting that public discourse often overlooks the complexities of menopause and the realities of ageing bodies. This skepticism reflects a broader societal challenge in addressing the narratives surrounding ageing and gender.

The Guardian

Sharmacharja expresses hope that the exhibition will inspire multigenerational dialogue, encouraging visitors to recognize how societal structures influence the ageing process. She advocates for a collective effort to improve conditions for older adults, emphasizing that societal change is possible and necessary.

The Guardian

• “people want to live for ever, but they don’t want to get old” — Shamita Sharmacharja, Curator

The Guardian

• “When you look at women in art historical paintings, they’ve been painted by men,” — Serena Korda, Artist

The Guardian

• “has to coexist with really good face-to-face services. I think the danger is when we start to see it as a total replacement or as cost-cutting. I think the future lies with tech, which does that in coexistence to all of our amazing tools that we just have as humans to check in on one another.” — Rory Pilgrim, Artist

The Guardian

As "The Coming of Age" prepares to open, it aims to challenge existing narratives about ageing and foster a deeper understanding of the complexities involved. The exhibition seeks to engage audiences in meaningful conversations about the value of older generations and the societal changes needed to support them.

The Guardian