Exploring the connections between design and sport

Sport has long been an important feature of Manchester’s cultural life. Home to two Premier League football clubs, the National Cycling Centre, National Squash Centre, and the GreatCity Games, Manchester is a big sporting city.

And design plays a huge role in sports – whether it’s making beautiful products to covet, or using cutting edge technology to make you perform faster or stronger. Ceramics and metal – materials we traditionally  think of as being used to make jewellery and homewares – are making ground breaking improvements to the way we exercise, and sports companies big and small are increasingly promoting and celebrating craftsmanship and innovation in their products.

Athletically Pleasing is a showcase of products exploring how craft, design and innovative technology are being used to enhance both athletic performance and aesthetic appeal in sport.

Check out our blog for a closer look at the products featured in this exhibition here…

FREE Launch Event, Thursday 25th May, 6-8pm

Join us to celebrate the launch of Athletically Pleasing with refreshments and live music from Ailsa McLaggan of Living Room Dance Club.

Images:
Gropes handlebar covers © Nonusual.
Workout clothes with Silverescent® fabric technology by Lululemon © Lululemon.
Pilcrow Darts: collaboration between Joe Hartley and Rob Bailey © Joe Hartley.
Baker Miller Pink Hoodie by Vollebak © Andy Lo Pò.