A unique exhibition showcasing the work of non-conformist French designer Jean Paul Gaultier has been touring the United States. Currently, the exhibition titled The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier: From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk is showing at San Francisco’s DeYoung Museum. The exhibition has been curated by Thierry-Maxime Loriot and it presents140 haute couture and prêt-à -porter designs created by Gaultier between the mid-1970s and 2010. This exhibition is unique because it combines fashion with multimedia displays. In fact it features a multimedia look at the world through the eyes of Gaultier. There are sketches, fashion photography and video clips showcasing his celebrity collaborations.
Gaultier’s Work for Madonna Brought Him Worldwide Attention
Gaultier has done a lot of provocative work that have generated exciting ideas revolving around sexuality, gender issues and multiculturalism. Part of the exhibits is the designer’s work he did for singer and star Madonna. It was Gaultier who had designed the infamous cone bra for her Blond Ambition tour. Along with the bra Madonna wore a corset also designed by Gaultier for the music video of Express Yourself. He also made a dress for Madonna on the same theme. It was his work for the singing star that brought him to the attention of the world. The designer’s contribution to fashion has been highlighted effectively through this exhibition.
Spain Edition of the Exhibition will Have Interesting Additions
The presentation of the exhibits is very effective. There are storyboards that detail the labor, the craftsmanship and the material that went into making a dress. When you see the effort that goes into creating a dress you realize the creative genius of the designer. He is not a mere designer but a great artist and all his work may not be commercial success but they are always innovative. The exhibition in San Francisco is in its last leg and will close on 19th August. It will move to Spain to kick off an European tour. The venue of the exhibition will be Madrid’s FUNDACIÓN MAPFRE and it will be inaugurated on October 6 and will run in the city till January6, 2013. There will be additions made to the exhibition in Spain. Gaultier had designed some eye catching costumes for films made by Spanish director Pedro Almodovar and five such costumes will be on display in the exhibition in Spain.
