Jean Paul Gaultier exhibition at De Young is a sight to behold. De Young museum has been completely transformed to recreate the world of the great visionary, l’enfant terrible of the French couture. Losing myself in the labyrinth of passages and mesmerized by the sensory overload of images, sounds and textures, I have found the exhibition to be an excellent overview of Jean Paul Gaultier’s creative portfolio. As you walk into the gallery, you are greeted by the blinking and talking mannequins that at first gave me a rather uneasy feeling – but, hey, I am scared sh..less of clown costumes, and any other dubious characters (Santa Claus/Easter Bunny included) that apparently make children smile yet reduce a grown woman to tears! Not quite…but close enough. In the head of the group of mannequins, donning Jean Paul Gaultier’s dresses, was the plastic designer himself, introducing the collection and making random amusing remarks:
As you proceed further into the gallery, you are surrounded by photography showcasing designer’s innovative collections and hinting at their erotic themes.
The famous cone-bra and corsets are displayed behind the window highlighted by the soft lighting that draws you into its playful kinkiness. The photograph of Madonna as well as costume sketches for her tours decorate the walls:
I am used to be slightly disappointed by the scale of traveling exhibitions brought to SF as just when I get ready to be absorbed in the presented art works, I usually find out that what I have already seen is the “entire” exhibition. Jean Paul Gaultier’s collection proved to be different. Having been surprised by the mannequins, seduced by the sensual photographs and introduced to Jean Paul Gaultier’s biographical timeline printed boldly on the wall, I was ready to see a few more pieces and go home satisfied. When two more enormous rooms, packed with mannequins and flat-screen tvs featuring fashion shows and costumes created for the film productions opened up, I was shocked. Since I do not intend to disclose all the hidden treasures of that fashion “dungeon”, marked by many references to BDSM, punk culture and can-can’s lifted skirts, I would like to share a few images that really stroke my fancy.
Otherworldly headdresses:
Surreal wedding gowns:
Humorous play on traditional costumes:
Having been teased by this preview, hurry up to De Yong! The exhibition ends on August 19, 2012!
No comments:
Post a Comment