Info
- Dates: 29.11.23 – 28.04.24
- Curator: Cloé Pitiot
- Where: Musée des Arts Décoratifs
- Price: 15 euros/ free under 26
Embark into another dimension: between fashion, art, sculptures, installation and sounds, this exhibition envelops the visitor in a 360-degree experience. Dedicated to one of the most disruptive stylists of this generation, this retrospective succeeds in conveying the multifaceted universe of the designer. Highlighting the significance of external influences on her practice, the exhibition not only showcases over one hundred pieces by Van Harpen but also integrates contemporary artworks and design pieces that resonate with the artist’s vision.
The exhibition is divided in nine distinct environments, each characterized by different natural elements. Upon entering the first room, visitors are immediately transported to another realm. Surrounded by the element of water, the dark ambiance evokes the depths of the ocean, with dresses recalling sea plants or corals and soft sounds reminiscent of the white noises found underwater.
Each room in its unique way reflects a specific theme or ambiance. What emerges in all of them is the immense research that Iris Van Harpen conducts to create her pieces. She takes inspiration from a wide array of sources, attracted by sinuous and particular objets taken both from the natural and artificial world.This variety is highlighted in the room named Cabinet de curiosité. Resembling the eclectic collections of Renaissance wunderkammers, this space embodies the designer’s diverse interests, featuring objects seemingly unrelated to fashion yet indicative of her unique worldview.
This scrupulous research on what surrounds her extends to the materials: Iris van Harpen conceives her creations with such a holystique approach that made her immediately recognizable. Leveraging both natural and artificial sources, she transforms and processes raw materials, often incorporating cutting-edge technologies. Visitors encounter garments crafted from organza glass, 3D-printed polymers, and screen-printed silk, and their iconic cuts and shapes further accentuate the innovation of her style.
What makes this exhibition unique is the perfect fusion of different disciplines. The contemporary artworks in each room complement the dresses, and the display cases housing natural mirabilia enhance the visitor’s curiosity. The meticulously crafted scenography of each space, coupled with the bespoke sound design produced by Salvador Breed, designer and composer, further amplifies the immersive journey, echoing the diverse universes evoked by Van Harpen’s distinctive style.
My personal highlights:
- Hypnagogia, dress, “Lucid” collection (2016)
- Foliage, dress, “Ludi Naturae” collection (2018)
- Epicycle, dress, “Hypnosis” collection (2019)
MUSEmemoirs 