Valentino, Retrospective: Past/Present/Future is a major exhibition developed by Paris's renowned decorative arts museum, Les Arts Décoratifs. It explores the work of the celebrated Italian fashion house Valentino, known the world over for its sophisticated, timeless design and glamorous clientele.
The exhibition encompasses haute couture from the first collection designed in 1959 by the house's founder, Valentino Garavani, through to work from the Autumn/Winter 2009-10 collection. One hundred exquisite haute couture garments will reveal Valentino's mastery of the elegant line, classic form and opulent detail. Particular 'themes and variations' will be explored that unite Valentino's design approach across more than five decades: these include the recurrence of geometric patterns and graphic prints, the skilful use of fabric to create dramatic silhouettes, and of course the distinctive palette of black, white and 'Valentino red'.
Valentino, Retrospective: Past/Present/Future will open at GoMA on 7 August 2010, in what will be its exclusive presentation in Australia. This follows the exhibition's successful realisation in Paris in 2008, which was a celebration of Mr Garavani's forty-fifth and final collection presented in that year. The future direction of this most esteemed fashion label will be showcased through five designs by the house of Valentino's new creative directors Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli.
Designs from the house of Valentino have been coveted and worn by European royalty, Hollywood celebrities and members of high society the world over. This magnificent exhibition will include garments worn by stars such as Cate Blanchett, Nicole Kidman, Julia Roberts, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Elizabeth Taylor and more.
GoMA will be open UP LATE every Friday night from 3 September – 12 November. Join friends at the new stylish lounge and cocktail bar situated right in the heart of the exhibition. Hear a talk, watch a film, then relax and enjoy performances by local, national and international DJs.
Valentino, Retrospective: Past/Present/Future has been designed and realised by Les Arts Décoratifs, Paris, with the assistance of the Valentino fashion house, Rome.
For further information visit www.qag.qld.gov.au/valentino
Venue
Gallery of Modern Art
Stanley Place, South Bank Precinct, South Brisbane