- Museum of the History of Science - https://www.mhs.ox.ac.uk -

The Pleasures and Sorrows of Work

Kimberly-Clark paper mill, Northfleet [1]

Texts by Alain de Botton

Photographs by Richard Baker

 

THE PLEASURES AND SORROWS OF WORK

14 APRIL – 05 SEPTEMBER

This special exhibition showcases 16 stunning photographs by Richard Baker for Alain de Botton’s recent book The Pleasures and Sorrows of Work.

An exploration of the joys and perils of the modern workplace, the book beautifully evokes what people get up to all day – and night – to make the frenzied contemporary world function.

The exhibition juxtaposes texts from the book with a selection of Richard Baker’s specially-commissioned images. Ranging from rocket science to biscuit manufacture, it illuminates art, nature and industry through the hidden worlds of modern work.

Listen to Richard Baker talk about his photographic work, and his experience of working with de Botton. [2]

Listen to the Museum’s Assistant Keeper, Dr Stephen Johnston, who curated The Pleasures and Sorrows of Work talk about the concepts behind the exhibition. [3]

External Links:
Alain de Botton’s website [7]
Richard Baker’s website [8]
Pleasures and Sorrows of Work video [9]