Home   What's On   News   Article

Review: New exhibition at Maidstone Museum, Re-Imagining the Doll's House

A new exhibition revealing some small sights which could expand your mind in a big way is being staged in Maidstone. We took a look around...

When you walk into the display room for Re-Imagining the Doll's House in Maidstone Museum, you might be forgiven for thinking it's a small space.

Yet within those four walls are many other tiny walls, all showing a glimpse into a different era, way of life or even world.

The Story Begins, a 3D installation by Jules Grob, part of Re-Imagining the Doll's House at Maidstone Museum
The Story Begins, a 3D installation by Jules Grob, part of Re-Imagining the Doll's House at Maidstone Museum

Barbie and her friend recline in an ever-pink world alongside a doll's house made for the wealthy Maidstone landowners the Whatman family, who owned the Vinter's Estate in Maidstone. Dating from 1869, it was made for the four daughters of the 4th James Whatman and his wife - Mary, Ellen, Florence and Louisa.

Worn through play but carefully looked after, the house was clearly a treasured possession in the house.

There's also a mystery within the walls. A Regency Style House, which dates from the early 19th century, is made from an old cupboard with a skilfully-painted facade, yet no-one knows who gave it to the museum - in pieces - or when.

Barbie and friend relax
Barbie and friend relax

It's since been put together and cleaned carefully, though no further clues emerged during that process.

There's also contributions from contemporary artists and makers including photographs, videos, artworks and models, all inspired by the concept of a ‘small house’.

They include The Story Begins, a 3D installation by Jules Grob, as a doll peeks into the pages of a book to start her story.

Railway Mouse, part of Re-Imagining the Doll's House at Maidstone Museum
Railway Mouse, part of Re-Imagining the Doll's House at Maidstone Museum

There's information throughout the exhibition about the history of doll's houses, including the idea that they were used in the 16th and 17th centuries as a way of instructing wives on how to run a high status household.

Alex Gurr, exhibitions development officer, said: “As the title of the exhibition suggests, the displays are designed to challenge the idea of a doll’s house as a trivial ‘plaything’, seeking new interpretations that highlight their role in creativity and their significance within their social and historical context.”

Whether you just want to relive your childhood days; like things in miniature, or just want to expand your mind with something small, the free exhibition is worth a look - make sure you take a big imagination with you.

DETAILS

Re-Imagining the Doll's House is upstairs at Maidstone Museum in St Faiths Street until Saturday, November 10 and is free to enter. For more details and museum opening times go to maidstonemuseum.org

Re-Imagining the Doll's House at Maidstone Museum
Re-Imagining the Doll's House at Maidstone Museum
Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More