Tropical Modernism: Architecture and Independence

The hot, humid conditions of West Africa and India in the 1940s were likely incomparable to anything many of us have ever experienced, even during British ‘summers’, and surviving them comfortably is largely thanks to architectural style which developed throughout the era. The V&A’s Porter Gallery, accessible via the Cromwell Road entrance, will transport us through a world of Tropical Modernism, which truly emerged after independence was granted in India and Ghana, when the nations wanted to begin distinguishing themselves from colonial culture. The collection includes illustrations and photography to demonstrate this architectural symbol of modernity and progress, with thanks to scholars, architects and filmmakers, and it sure looks worth a visit.