Sydneysiders are being given a rare look behind the scenes of the world’s most iconic cruise line, with the launch of a special photographic exhibition to mark Cunard’s 175th anniversary.
From the serving of afternoon tea in Queen Mary 2’s ballroom to the storing of ropes below decks and the view from inside Queen Victoria’s funnel, the OneSevenFive collection brings together 70 stunning images capturing the majesty and grand tradition of Cunard’s three Queen fleet.
Taken by Sydney-based photographer James Morgan, who has captured Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth around the globe, the exhibition features many never-before-seen photos, including images of the ships’ masters and crew at work – and relaxing – on their ships. Preparations for Queen Mary 2’s theatre productions, the ritual folding of Queen Victoria’s flag and crew members shooting hoops on the basketball court beneath the funnel are all on display.
The collection includes some famous images taken during the trio’s maiden visits to Sydney Harbour, while many behind-the-scenes shots were captured during a 175-hour period late last year when James travelled between the three ships in Europe and America to create a visual record for the pending anniversary.
Positioned on two-metre high stands along the Sydney Opera House’s western broadwalk, the unveiling of the OneSevenFive collection today coincides with the first ever dual visit to Sydney of Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria for an historic Cunard Royal Rendezvous.
The rendezvous will form the inspiration for the exhibition’s final two images, which will be taken by James in Sydney today and installed tomorrow morning (Friday March 13).
Reflecting the company’s 175th anniversary, the free exhibition will be on show for 175 hours until late Thursday March 19.
Launching the exhibition, Ann Sherry, CEO of Carnival Australia which represents Cunard in Australia, said the Cunard fleet continued to turn heads the world over.
“These images are just as arresting as the ships themselves, conveying all the grandeur and beauty which has captured the imagination of generations of cruise passengers over 175 years,” Ms Sherry said.
Speaking at the opening, James described the design and structure of Cunard’s ships as “a photographer’s dream”.
“I have had many opportunities over 30 years of photographing people, places and events worldwide, but nothing excites me as much as hanging out of a helicopter and seeing Queen Mary 2 sailing towards me,” James said. “It’s an honour and a privilege to work with Cunard and everything I’ve achieved is down to the captains of these incredible ships and the phenomenal warmth and professionalism of all their crew.”
The OneSevenFive exhibition will be open to the public from Thursday March 12 until Thursday March 19, running for 175 hours.
SOURCE Cunard