Making Egypt, Young V&A, exhibition review: ‘Fitting centrepiece for a family day out’
Kids may know ancient Egypt for its mummies and pyramids, but now the Young V&A has set out to trace the broader cultural legacy of the Nile delta with a new exhibition Making Egypt.
The emphasis in this show is on craft and myth, themes readily accessible to children, in particular those aged 8-12.
Egypt is told through its stories, animal imagery, clothes, jewellery and everyday ceramics, illustrating how these continue to influence art, design and popular culture.
Making clever use of the V&A’s trove of Egyptian artifacts (over 200 works can be seen), a good part of the display is encased in a traditional museum format that will be attractive to adult visitors with an interest in ancient art.
There are nevertheless a number of opportunities for hands-on engagement.
Children can write their own story on hieroglyphs, design an amulet, and draw pictures inspired by what they have seen.
We also meet Azza, Zahed, and Marjan, contemporary makers whose wares, inspired by traditional artisanal practices, bring the past to life.
For downtime, there are videos and storybooks with Egyptian themes.
Making Egypt is the second major exhibition since the museum reopened in 2023 under its current name.
It does a fine job of engaging with audiences on different levels, making it a fitting centrepiece for a family day out.
Making Egypt runs until 2 November at the Young V&A, Cambridge Heath Road, E2 9PA.