Cunard is inviting the public to co-create a new exhibition, Sea of Glamour, curated by renowned British photographer Mary McCartney.
The exhibition will celebrate 185 years of ocean travel by preserving and showcasing memories.
According to Cunard’s research, the digital age is creating a generational gap in the way we preserve memories. An international study by the cruise line revealed that while 265 billion photos are taken annually across the UK and U.S., most remain buried in digital devices, with only 3 percent stored in printed albums.
Katie McAlister, president of Cunard, said: “For 185 years, our ships have been at the heart of unforgettable moments for millions of guests and crew. This is a chance to celebrate those memories and the stories they tell. By sharing your experiences, you’ll help Mary McCartney create something truly unique – an exhibition that brings Cunard’s incredible history to life for everyone to enjoy.”
The reliance on digital storage raises concerns about the longevity of memories, as 72 percent of respondents fear that future generations could lose access to their family histories without printed photos. Additionally, only 51 percent of adults feel confident that their digital photos will still be accessible in 50 years.
The study also found a lack of planning around photo preservation, with 75 percent of adults intending to preserve photos of their children or relatives. However, others cited reasons such as not having thought about it (38 percent) or assuming there is little interest in the photos (33 percent).
Cunard’s Sea of Glamour exhibition aims to address these concerns, encouraging the public to contribute their treasured moments to create a lasting celebration of collective history.
Siân Wilks, Cunard archivist at the University of Liverpool Library, said: “As a unique resource that captures Cunard’s unrivalled 185-year history, the Cunard archive is an incredible collection that is accessible to all. It is exciting to see how today’s events will shape the Cunard archive of the future and capture the stories of those connected to the brand.”
