How Teenage Dreams Shape Our Lives

A series of new videos and an exhibition at the National Graphene Institute explore how adolescent experiences and dreams shape our future lives. They are based on research carried out with women in their 70s and 80s who reflected on their experiences as teenagers in Britain in the 1960s and 1970s.

It was a time of real change. Girls often stay in school longer, which means more qualifications and, for some, well-paid careers. Some, but not all, were able to access the pill. Teenagers with spare cash could buy pop music records, follow the latest fashions, and save up for travel.

Our Teenage Kicks videos show their dreams for their future. From daydreaming about what it would be like to drive a car, or even just wear pants, to dreams of traveling to different countries, getting married, and delaying children until family finances are secure.

Each of the eight women reflects on how their teenage experiences affected the course of their lives. For some, like Joyce, dreams are cut short. She planned to train as a teacher, but had to leave school when her mother fell ill and she was needed at home.

Others, like Andrea, are realizing some of their teenage dreams. Now retired, she is rekindling her teenage interest in politics and social justice, participating in climate protests and volunteering at her local food bank.

You can see Andrea's story at the National Graphene Institute through September. The gallery is viewed from the street outside NGI, so you don't need to check opening times.

Alternatively, you can view the entire Teenage Kicks exhibition online, read the zine or watch the video.