the Somerset House
local kids frolic amongst the fountains on a summer day
Pilgrims to the exhibition are greeted by numerous signs of the event, followed by a series of tabi hoof prints on the floor leading to the exhibition entrance.
a Margielic trailer by the entranceI was peeved to learn photography was prohibited within the exhibition, it was just so visually rich! However, here are a few snapshots from the inside, via SlamXHype:
full-bang hairpieces used to obscure the models' faces at a fashion show
the iconic tabi foot silhouette
a size 44 dress form used to create conceptual XXXL clothingThe real treasure for me, though, was the guide to the exhibition given upon entry.
Here, many of the recurring themes in Margiela's creations are discussed in-depth, and the story behind them explained. If you've ever found a Margiela piece clever, or haunting, or seemingly multi-layered, but couldn't exactly figure out the logic behind it, the answers to your questions may just be in this guide.Margielic leitmotifs are explored:
the concept of "incognito"
On paint, a favorite material of mine to work with: "When the garment is actually worn, the paint will slowly start to crack, ultimately making the original color and texture of the item visible again. Here, the designer presents the impossibility of denying history..."The exhibition runs until the 5th of September, catch it while it's there!
And now, for the first time on The Dandy Project, a CONTEST:
Maison Martin Margiela's 20 years in the business has left an imprint on us all. Leave a comment telling me how Margiela directly or indirectly changed you creatively (e.g. I like to wear XXXL button-downs, or I have a fondness for all-white), plus your e-mail address, and I'll ship a copy of the exhibition guide to the one with the best answer.
EDIT: The winner has been chosen and the guide will be shipped shortly. Thanks for joining!