Home Latest Fascinating Free Exhibition on Antarctic Exploration at Library of Birmingham

s0000141 — Endurance in full sail, in the ice. Credit: Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)

Fascinating Free Exhibition on Antarctic Exploration at Library of Birmingham

16th January 2017

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One of the greatest ever photographic records of human survival is to be exhibited for free at the Library of Birmingham from Friday (20 January 2017).

‘Enduring Eye’ is an incredible photographic record of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s exploration of the Antarctic, from 1914-17, with newly digitised images revealing previously unseen details of the crew’s epic struggle for survival, before and after their ship, The Endurance, was destroyed.

Images taken by expedition photographer Frank Hurley were selected and saved from the sinking Endurance by Hurley and Shackleton – and the original, fragile glass plates negatives have been carefully preserved in the collections of the Royal Geographical Society (with the Institute of British Geographers).

On the driving flow ‘Ocean’ Camp. Shackleton standing by his tent shoulder to shoulder with his second in command Wild. Behind: each man stands alone. Scientists and officers in mid ground. Crew at the back.
Credit: Royal Geographical Society (with IBG)

Cllr Ian Ward, Deputy Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “It’s very exciting to be working with the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) to bring this fantastic exhibition to Birmingham. The dedication and teamwork of Shackleton’s crew cannot fail to inspire admiration.

“Enduring Eye is the first of a series of exhibitions being held at the Library of Birmingham this year, each reflecting on the UK’s changing role in the world and particularly Birmingham’s position as an international city.”

Alasdair MacLeod, Head of Enterprise and Resources at the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG), said: “We’re delighted to be working with the Library of Birmingham as part of Enduring Eye’s UK tour and local links project.

“The Endurance expedition is not just an incredible story of human survival and leadership, it’s also a key part of the UK’s Antarctic history. We encourage everyone to visit the exhibition while it’s on free display at the Library of Birmingham to discover more about the expedition and its links with Birmingham.”

Enduring Eye: The Antarctic Legacy of Sir Ernest Shackleton and Frank Hurley will be displayed in The Gallery, Floor 3, Library of Birmingham, opens Friday 20 January and runs until 22 April 2017. The exhibition is free and suitable for the whole family.