by Kamila Morell
The future of fashion is here. Just one mile down the street at the High Museum you can find designer Iris Van Herpen’s eye-opening, futuristic fashions of her first ever US exhibition “Iris van Herpen: Transforming Fashion.” Capturing the imagination of the fashion industry as well as the rest of the world, van Herpen’s haute couture designs will leave you breathless and inspired to look at clothes in a different perspective- sometimes more akin to disciplines like sculpture, architecture, and anatomy. The expansive collection on display at the High Museum covers three floors and the last seven years of Iris van Herpen’s runway shows. It includes film components with interview and runway footage, a selection of her shoe designs, as well as an interactive area where visitors are invited to touch the materials that compose some of the garments. Speaking of materials, this collection contains almost all materials you can find under the sun — an interesting contrast to their otherworldly and ethereal qualities. Some of the innovative techniques and designs you can expect to see include 3-D printed fashions, a dress made out of mirrors, an “Ice” dress, laser-cut shoes with caged crystals and a garment modeled after an expanded skeleton. The latter one, van Herpen revealed, was modeled after her experiences with skydiving.
This is the High Museum’s first fashion exhibit and it runs from November 7, 2015 to May 15, 2016 so you have plenty of opportunities to see it. Some additional events revolving around the Iris van Herpen exhibit include:
Iris van Herpen: Transforming Fashion Curatorial Conversation: Thursday, Nov 12 8pm at Hill Auditorium
The High’s curator Sarah Schleuning will talk about the process of bringing this exhibit to life from its beginnings three years ago all the way to the recent inauguration. Though the event is free, seating will be limited so make sure to reserve a ticket through the Woodruff Arts Center box office.
Friday Night Music Remix: Friday, Nov 20 at 8pm
In a special concert event, the High will feature music from Atlanta locals Oryx & Crake and Ruby Velle and the Soulphonics. This event will be half-priced museum admission and free for members. So check it out and enjoy a night of music and great Iris van Herpen’s designs.
Day After Thanksgiving: Friday, Nov 27, special program from 1-8pm
While still recovering from a food overload and want something fun and passive to do, head over to the High Museum. There will be collections on display, live music, and interactive art projects inspired by Iris van Herpen: Transforming Fashion.
This exhibit is a great opportunity for us in Atlanta. With the opening of SCAD FASH last month and now one of the leading voices of haute couture, this city is becoming a major fashion destination. Having some the most avant-garde and unique van Herpen pieces so nearby our Atlanta campus is sure to inspire and challenge how we think about clothing, its function, and above all, its potential.
