Art and Gallery News: Sharon Stone's paintings delve into "the Power of Confronting Vulnerability" now on show in San Francisco

Renowned Hollywood star Sharon Stone unveils a new exhibition of her paintings in San Francisco, delving into the theme of "The Power of Confronting Vulnerability."  

The Bay by Sharon Stone (2024).
Acrylic on canvas, diptych 48" x 96"

Taking place at Gallery 181, of 181 Fremont Residences, the show, entitled: "My Eternal Failure" running from April 11 until August 31 2024,  presents a collection of 18 never-before-seen paintings curated by Stone herself.   This exhibition serves as a poignant reflection on the artist's transformative experiences during her six-year tenure in San Francisco, a period marked by profound vulnerability. Through this collection, Stone pays homage to the city where she discovered the resilience to overcome life's most daunting challenges.  Each painting serves as a testament to her resilience in overcoming life's most daunting obstacles.

Following the resounding success of her previous exhibitions in Los Angeles, Greenwich, and Berlin (now running until May 18 2024), this marks Stone's fourth solo exhibition within a year, attesting to her enduring creative prowess and profound impact on the art world.

Jester by Sharon Stone (2023).
Acrylic on canvas, 36" x 18"

Located at an altitude of 700 feet in the sky, the Gallery 181 serves as the crown of this majestic tower developed by Jay Paul Company (JPC).  The visually dramatic space on the 69th floor is the “highest art gallery in the world,” offers unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean, the Bay Bridge, and San Francisco's iconic landmarks.

Stone's near-death experience in San Francisco in 2001 profoundly influenced her artistic vision, enabling her to perceive colours in a newfound light. This creative breakthrough birthed her journey into painting, a transformative process she continues to explore today.

“We are thrilled to bring the powerful art of Sharon Stone for the first time to San Francisco. As a former resident of the City, she is integral to our cultural fabric and we are honoured to welcome her back with this new gallery show," says Matt Lituchy, the Chief Investment Officer of JPC. “181 Fremont is committed to celebrating the intersection of art and our community with provocative and intriguing programs like this one.”     

Portrait of Sharon Stone, by Eric Michael Roy

The near death experience of Sharon Stone’s 2001 brain injury in San Francisco profoundly impacted her creativity, allowing her to see colours in a whole new way.  The trauma, which almost ended her life, forever changed her relationship to colour ‒ expanding her ability to see more colours around her than ever before. 

“This creative breakthrough happened to me in San Francisco, eventually leading me to a whole new world of creativity where I’m at today, through painting,” says Sharon Stone.

The Bridge by Sharon Stone (2024).
Acrylic on canvas, 60" x 72"

The sense of place of this exhibition reinforces “in situ” references – works of art that are made for a specific place, or that reference the site in which they are to be shown.

Works that reflect their surroundings or the architecture framing them, revealing the complex relationship people have to a place.     Stone captured inspiration for several of the new works from the landscapes and diversity of people in San Francisco, yet she also wanted to paint the story of her time in the early 2000s when she lived in this place.

The exhibition centers on healing by confronting the vulnerabilities she experienced.

“I want this art exhibition to serve as a vehicle for self-forgiveness, and I hope it can help others do the same by letting go of societal stigmas and imposed perceptions,” says Stone.

“In this way, failures become sources of strength, and to face them is to keep growing. The exhibition’s title My Eternal Failure is freeing for me,” says Stone.    Stone admits it’s not easy returning to the places where she’s been hurt, but she is doing it. Returning to the scene where it happened and releasing it.

“Perhaps the softer way would have been to just ignore and avoid it, but I’m choosing to learn from it. This new series of paintings required me to look into the darkest corners of my life, and it was liberating,” says Stone.

“There was the bad space, but there is also the good space of making it through to the other side” adds Stone.    

Bonne Nuit by Sharon Stone (2024).
Acrylic on canvas, 60" x 72"

Stone also has a gallery show currently in Europe at Galerie Deschler Berlin (on view now until May 18 2024). More than 14,000 people have visited Stone's Berlin exhibition since it opened on Feb. 7. Her Berlin show will be featured during the upcoming Gallery Weekend Berlin (April 26-28), one of the leading contemporary art events in Europe attracting more than 30,000 visitors from around the world.

Stone's exhibitions in both Berlin and San Francisco underscore her enduring impact on the global art scene, earning accolades from esteemed critics like Jerry Saltz (the Senior Art Critic for New York Magazine and winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Criticism) and art historian Martin Oskar Kramer.  

“In a sort of mystic unraveling, I see someone living a life in art. Being a freedom machine. She more than survives. Sharon Stone walked through the valley of death and into an art supply store,” says Jerry Saltz in his extensive artist interview with Stone on vuture.com

The art historian Martin Oskar Kramer (Ph.D., Princeton University), says: “Stone’s paintings exude a raw and spontaneously expressive quality, resulting from a shifting alchemy of chaos and structure. An expression of the feminine that is deeply in touch with natural forces, fundamentally untamable. The recurring elements and symbols in her paintings signify change, flow and metamorphosis.” 

London Event: British Fashion Council's Institute of Positive Fashion (IPF) forum, set to take place on April 18th

The British Fashion Council (BFC)'s Institute of Positive Fashion (IPF) forum is scheduled to take place on April 18th in London.

This annual conference, geared towards driving action within the British fashion industry to achieve a circular fashion ecosystem in the UK by 2030, will spotlight a roster of keynote speakers. Among them are prominent figures such as Paul Dillinger, the Global Head of Design and Innovation at Levi’s, and esteemed Italian luxury fashion designer Brunello Cucinelli. Additionally, Baroness Lola Young and Simon Platts, CEO and co-founder of NED, will tackle pressing issues in their discussion on 'Human Rights and Environmental Sustainability: The Time to Act is Now.' Furthermore, Kyle Ho, Mica Phillips, and Patrick McDowell will introduce The IPF's Low Carbon Transition Programme.

In the lineup of presentations, 'Business Change Through Citizen Action' will be explored by Brontie Ansell of Lawyers for Nature, Lucy Shea from Futerra, Tyler LaMotte representing Patagonia, and climate activist Daze Aghaji.

The forum will conclude with a keynote conversation featuring June Sarpong and Thangam Debonnaire, the Shadow Secretary of State.

Characterized as an action-driven event by the BFC, the forum will conclude with audience breakout sessions aimed at fostering collaboration and accelerating positive change within the sector.

Fashion retail: Victoria Beckham Joins Forces with Mango for Exclusive Collection Launching in April

Exciting news from Spanish retailer MANGO revealing its upcoming collaboration with British pop-star turned designer Victoria Beckham, set to debut on April 23rd both online and in stores.

The Victoria Beckham x MANGO collection coincides with MANGO's 40th anniversary celebration.  In a promotional image, Justi Ruano, Creative Director of Mango Woman, is seen alongside Victoria Beckham, hinting at the creative synergy driving this exciting venture.

This eagerly anticipated capsule collection promises to marry Beckham's signature British elegance with MANGO's contemporary flair. With fashion enthusiasts already predicting a swift sell-out, anticipation is running high.  Although Mango has not yet disclosed the price points for the collection, customers can anticipate accessibility in pricing, significantly lower than Beckham's luxury line.

This partnership, coinciding with Mango's 40th anniversary celebration, marks the latest in a series of collaborations for MANGO, previously with leading brands and talents like SIMONMILLER, Camille Charrière, and Pernille Teisbaek.  These coveted collaborations often allow high street retailers to justify price increases. Mango acknowledges that its clientele is willing to invest in high-profile collaborative pieces as well as exclusive in-house releases.

Beckham's fashion shows consistently draw significant attention during Fashion Month, regardless of the city in which they're held, so there is little doubt this collaboration will be a success.

While boasting an aesthetic that exudes sophistication, the collection promises precision tailoring with an intriguing twist, alongside flowy dresses, everyday knitwear, and a range of accompanying bags, accessories, and shoes. True to expectations, all pieces are presented in a muted colour palette, perfectly suited for an "island" vibe.

In her recent interview wth WWD, Beckham described the collection as having a subtle cheekiness while maintaining a polished appearance. Inspired by the timeless allure of the French film 'La Piscine', Beckham drew specific influence from Jane Birkin's character, embodying natural beauty, femininity, and a sense of liberation. Collaborating closely with Justi Ruano, Mango's Creative Director for women's wear, Beckham ensured that the collection authentically reflects her personal style.

Despite the relatively modest size of Victoria Beckham's label, with sales totaling £58.8 million in its latest report, her "Spice Girls" fame and prominent family name have elevated her profile far beyond what similarly-sized labels might achieve. 

It is therefore ripe to believe Mango's collaboration with Beckham promises to be a significant publicity boon for the retailer. Mango is currently enjoying a period of remarkable success, as evidenced by its record-breaking 2023 financial results unveiled just last month. Looking ahead, Mango has outlined ambitious goals in its strategic plan for 2026, aiming to reach €4 billion in revenue and open 500 additional stores.

Fashion and history: Jewish immigrants' contributions made London a "Fashion City" at Museum of London Docklands, now extended to July 7th 2024

Garment factories have been a significant part of London's industrial landscape, particularly in the 19th and early 20th centuries, when the city was a hub for textile manufacturing and garment production. Many immigrant entrepreneurs, including those of Jewish heritage, played key roles in establishing and operating
garment factories in London during this period. 
The 1917 photograph above of Schneider's Garment Factory showing the working life of
garment workers in the early 1900s.

Jewish immigrants arriving in London in the 1800s and early 1900s found abundant opportunities, notably in the clothing industry and accessories trade, significantly contributing to London's evolution into a fashion capital.  Exploring this rich historical narrative has been made accessible through the exhibition "Fashion City" at the Museum of London Docklands, now extended to July 7th 2024.

A short film shown at the start of the Fashion City exhibition explains the long history of Britain's Jewish population.  Many of them came as children during the Kindertransport rescue mission that took place in the months leading up to the outbreak of World War II, primarily in 1938 and 1939. It involved the organized evacuation of thousands of Jewish children from Nazi-occupied territories, particularly Germany, Austria, Czechoslovakia,
and Poland, to the safety of Great Britain.

This popular exhibition delves primarily into the intertwined narratives of Jewish immigrants in the East End of London, their impactful presence in the West End, and the enduring legacy of Jewish designers, makers, and retailers in London's fashion world. In addition to their commercial success, they brought diversity and creativity to London's fashion scene, drawing inspiration from their cultural heritage and experiences. 

Dr Lucie Whitmore, curator of the exhibition, explained in a recent interview with the BBC, the capital's garment business was "a really, really big story for people whose heritage is Jewish London".

"We really wanted to celebrate the fact that Jewish Londoners have operated in so many different segments of the industry," she said.

"In the exhibition we look at the importance of portable trades, so this idea that you can move with your business, you've always got of working and earning a living," Dr Whitmore explains.

"Sadly, the reality for Jewish people throughout a lot of history is that they had to move for safety, and having a portable skill is very good; you can set up and start making a living for yourself quite quickly."

Against the backdrop of escalating persecution and economic turmoil in Eastern Europe, Jewish immigrants sought refuge in the burgeoning industrial landscape of Britain, particularly in urban hubs like London during the mid-19th century.

This vanity case, known as "Tula," was crafted by Molmax, a company that boasted clientele from the UK, the US, and the Far East. A significant aspect of their operations involved manufacturing for esteemed retailers like Harrods and renowned brands such as Burberry, Dior, Aquascutum, Bloomingdale's, and Brooks Brothers.
Heinz Moldau, the founder of the business in London, hailed from a lineage of luggage artisans originally from Lemburg (now Lviv, Ukraine), who later resettled in Vienna during the 1890s. Their luggage factory in Vienna fell victim to Nazi seizure in the late 1930s. Heinz himself arrived in London through the Kindertransport rescue mission.

By the late 19th century, the Jewish community in London had become one of the largest in Europe.  According to various historical sources and estimates, the Jewish population in London increased from around 10,000 in the mid-19th century to over 150,000 by the early 20th century. The interwar period saw further growth and diversification of London's Jewish population, with immigrants arriving not only from Eastern Europe but also from other parts of the world, including Germany and Russia. By the 1930s, the Jewish population in London was estimated to be over 300,000.

The intricate frame of this bag exhibits the elaborate patterned silverwork characteristic of pieces crafted by Rosenthal, Jacob & Co., esteemed silversmiths of well-established Anglo-Jewish families. It is plausible that this bag once graced the possession of Queen Victoria or her daughter, Princess Louise.

Upon their arrival, many Jewish immigrants settled particularly in areas such as Whitechapel, Spitalfields, and Stepney.  Particularly streets around Houndsditch and Petticoat Lane to the east of the City were made famous by Jewish businesses.  The East End provided affordable housing and opportunities for employment in the burgeoning garment industry, which was flourishing due to the growth of the ready-to-wear clothing market.

Military boots from Morris Angel and Son of Shaftesbury Avenue
founded by Daniel Angel who hailed from a Jewish family with origins in Germany. The company specialized in providing bespoke military uniforms and accessories, catering to the needs of both civilian and military clientele, and continues today as Angels Costumes & Fancy Dress, run by a 7th generation of the family.

Structured chronologically, the exhibition highlights how the clothing industry and accessories trade became central to the livelihood of many Jewish immigrants.  While they often worked in sweatshops or small workshops, where they could utilise their skills in tailoring, sewing, and garment production.

Evening dresses and handbag by Sophie Rabin, a much sought-after dressmaker for bespoke fashion in London's West End.  Born in Poland, she came to London with her family in 1914 and settled in Whitechapel, living at the synagogue where her father worked.

The East End of London became a vibrant hub of Jewish culture and commerce. Synagogues, kosher food shops, and Jewish social institutions proliferated, creating a sense of community and solidarity among the immigrant population. Yiddish, the language spoken by many Eastern European Jews, could be heard in the streets, contributing to the area's distinctive cultural identity.

A shop window showcasing the tailoring skills and craftsmanship of Winston Giscombe, a talented tailor who worked for Julius & Co, a Jewish-owned tailoring family in Whitechapel in the 1950s.

The influence of Jewish immigrants extended beyond the East End, particularly into the West End of London, which is known for its upscale shopping districts and fashion scene. Jewish entrepreneurs and designers played a significant role in shaping the fashion landscape of London. They introduced innovative techniques, styles, and trends to the industry, contributing to London's reputation as a fashion capital.

Fashionable ensembles from the Konpy brand by Kessly of Kuperstein, founded by Charles Kupersten who was born in Warsaw.  He lived in Germany before moving to London around 1912.

In time, some immigrants ventured into entrepreneurship, establishing their own small clothing businesses. Some companies passed through multiple generation of Jewish families and even survive today. The contributions of Jewish designers, makers, and retailers ranged from establishing successful fashion houses to revolutionizing manufacturing processes. Jewish retailers like Cecil Gee, Chelsea Girl (which became River Island) and Wallis introduced new ways to sell garments and opened stores across the West End.

Some notable figures include Marks & Spencer founders Michael Marks and Thomas Spencer, who revolutionized retail practices and accessibility to quality clothing.  Michael Marks was born in Slonim, in present-day Belarus, then part of the Russian Empire, in 1859. He came from a Jewish family and immigrated to England in the late 19th century, seeking better opportunities. Marks'  partnership with Yorkshire-born Spencer began in 1894, and their business flourished and expanded rapidly across the UK. Exemplifying the immigrant experience and entrepreneurial spirit, they laid the foundation for one of the most enduring and influential retail brands in the United Kingdom, leaving an indelible mark on the country's retail landscape.

The roots of well-established retailer Moss Bros can also be traced back to Jewish immigrants. The company was founded by Moses (Moss) Moss in 1851 in Covent Garden, London. Moss, along with his brother Alfred, established a small clothing store initially catering to the needs of working-class men. They specialized in selling second-hand clothing, particularly uniforms, to the growing number of office workers and clerks in Victorian London.  Moss Bros also contributed significantly to London's fashion scene by establishing flagship stores in prominent locations, including Regent Street and Piccadilly Circus which became iconic landmarks in the city.  Furthermore, Moss Bros's involvement in the hire and sale of formal attire for special occasions further solidified its influence in the UK fashion industry. Over the years, Moss Bros has remained a prominent player in the UK retail landscape.

 A street of fashion retail shops in the Fashion City exhibition.

A major part of the Fashion City exhibition invites visitors to traverse through immersive recreations of street alleys, workshops, and retail establishments. From the glamorous boutiques of Carnaby Street to the bustling tailors of the East End during the Swinging Sixties, London's emergence as a global fashion powerhouse comes to life.

A video showing off hats by couture designer Otto Lucas who was born in Germany, but trained in Paris and Belin before moving to London in 1932.  
His parents remained in Germany and were killed in Nazi death camps.

Through displays, archive objects, film footage, photography, engaging oral histories and narratives, visitors uncover the tales of Jewish life, from education to employment, and those of fashion pioneers who ascended to prominence in their respective fields. These visionaries not only founded enduring retail chains that still grace the high streets of London but also clothed iconic figures such as David Bowie, Princess Diana, and Mick Jagger.

In essence, "Fashion City" offers a compelling exploration of the intertwined histories of Jewish immigrants and London's fashion scene, illuminating their profound influence on the city's cultural and economic landscape.

The Fashion City exhibition at the Museum of London Docklands is now extended to July 7th 2024.

Photos by Lucia Carpio.

Interior Design: WOW!house 2024 set to take place June 1 to July 4, at Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, London

Mark your calendars for WOW!house 2024, the premier interior design event returning to Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, London, running from Monday, June 4th, to Thursday, July 4th. 

As excitement mounts for this annual extravaganza, organizers pledge to elevate the standard for inspiration. Visitors will be wowed by 19 distinct full-scale rooms and outdoor spaces emerge along the Design Avenue, spanning an expansive 500 square meters within the Centre. Each of these spaces, crafted by esteemed interior designers in collaboration with globally renowned design brands and suppliers, promises unparalleled creativity, say organisers.

Claire German, CEO of Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, expresses the mission of WOW!house 2024 succinctly, stating, “Our aim is to ignite a sense of wonder; to captivate and motivate by showcasing the extraordinary accomplishments achievable when our talented industry unites in such a bold and extraordinary manner.”

WOW!house 2024 will feature 19 rooms, including a collaboration between
The Rug Company and Ken Fulk who is acclaimed for his intricate interiors and conceptual spectacles that exude a remarkable flair for theatricality. With his inaugural collection for The Rug Company, Fulk (pictured above) pays homage to life's rituals. Each rug within the collection intricately captures the essence of art, music, nature, and introspection, transforming these inspirations into evocative motifs that adorn the fabric of his designs.
Photo by The Rug Company website.

Noteworthy among the highlights of WOW!house 2024 is the entrance foyer envisioned by Benedict Foley, incorporating fabrics and wallpaper from Zoffany, symbolizing a shared dedication to British craftsmanship and production. Drawing inspiration from Luchino Visconti's 1963 masterpiece "The Leopard," Foley evokes the ambiance of a 19th-century Risorgimento Sicilian palazzo, infused with the allure of Claudia Cardinale and Alain Delon. Additionally, Foley commissions a bespoke loop pile carpet from one of the few remaining highly skilled weavers in the UK, utilising British wool. Embracing the ethos of the Arts & Crafts movement, all elements of the room will find new life in an upcoming exhibition at Voysey House, Sanderson Design Group’s new UK headquarters, focusing on material integrity, historical inquiry, and a touch of whimsy. Foley asserts that good design should be referential, not reverential.

In another captivating collaboration, The Rug Company joins forces with designer Ken Fulk, renowned for his enchanting creations and a clientele that includes luminaries like Pharrell Williams, Gigi Hadid, and Dolce & Gabbana. The Dining Room, a product of their collaboration, draws inspiration from Fulk's design with The Rug Company, "A Life Reflected," inspired by the storytelling traditions of Delft and Azulejo tilework dating back to the 14th century. Set within a reinterpretation of William Morris' Green Dining Room at the V&A, the scene is set for a midsummer Sunday supper, celebrating individuality and the preservation of decorative arts traditions worldwide. Fulk describes the ambiance as that of a well-traveled Countess, regaling her younger artist admirers with tales of global adventures and unconventional romances, imbuing the space with an air of mystery and allure.

There will be a Jamb Primary Bedroom by Charlotte Fremantle and Will Fisher. Drawing inspiration from an exquisite Chippendale model, the focal point of this bedroom is a splendid four-poster bed adorned in 18th-century paisley fabric and delicate pleated linen skirts. The walls are enveloped in silk, gently tinted to a dusky rose hue.

Meanwhile, the House of Rohl Primary Bathroom, curated by Michaelis Boyd, promises a realm of enchantment and marvel. A hand-painted mural unfolds across four progressively intimate zones, where whimsical touches harmonize with the exquisite craftsmanship of House of Rohl’s fixtures, crafted in French brass and custom RAL colors, alongside a luxurious Victoria & Albert Taizu tub. The ambiance seamlessly intertwines elements of nature and culture with a refined sense of sophistication.

Step into the Colefax and Fowler Morning Room, where designer Lucy Hammond Giles, crowned House & Garden’s Interior Designer of the Year 2023, crafts an inviting sunlit haven. Adorned with walls cloaked in cheerful yellow Larsen linen and complemented by bespoke yellow curtains boasting couture intricacies, this space epitomizes the quintessential style of Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler, the UK's oldest interior decorating establishment.

Meanwhile, in the McKinnon and Harris Courtyard, designer Katharine Pooley transports visitors to a quintessentially British setting, reminiscent of a serene English garden in full summer bloom. At its heart stands a charming trellised tennis pavilion, offering a picturesque backdrop inspired by Wimbledon, perfectly accentuating the graceful contours of McKinnon and Harris' outdoor furniture collection.

Among the myriad of inspirational designs, there will be the Watts 1874 Legend Room envisioned by the esteemed Alidad, celebrated globally for his discerning eye for antiques and textiles. Additionally, be sure to explore the Dedar Salon crafted by Fosbury Architecture, renowned for their curation of the Italian Pavilion at the 2023 Venice Biennale of Architecture (Biennale Architettura 2023), brought to life by the collaborative efforts of Giacomo Ardesio, Alessandro Bonizzoni, Nicola Campri, Veronica Caprino, and Claudia Mainardi.   Also the Tissus d’Hélène Drawing Room by Guy Goodfellow, an enchanting realm where past and present converge seamlessly, infused with a delightful sense of whimsy and unexpected delights.

For more information on WOW!house and tickets, visit dcch.co.uk/wowhouse.

Culture and Art: American artist Dale Chihuly's glass sculptures will be featured during London Craft Week May 13 - 19 2024

The itinerary for London Craft Week (LCW)'s much-anticipated 10th-anniversary edition is ready to be revealed and will be officially launched to the public on Monday 25th March 2024 for booking of events.  The public can also follow @londoncraftweek to receive the latest updates as we draw closer to the festival.

Slated to take place across London from May 13th to 19th, 2024, LCW is marking a decade of creative exploration with this year's carefully curated lineup reflecting on the profound evolution of the craft sector over the past ten years. 

The work of renowned American artist Dale Chihuly
will be among the highlights of London Craft Week 2024.

It pays homage to the visionary artisans who have been instrumental in shaping this transformation, while also casting an eye toward the emerging trends and innovations that will shape the next chapter of craftsmanship.  Particularly worth noting are collaborations with an array of exceptionally talented artists and makers from around the globe, alongside London's esteemed cultural institutions and renowned brands.

Reflecting on the journey since its inception in 2015, Guy Salter, Chairman of LCW, shares, "It feels like just yesterday that The King & Queen launched the first London Craft Week.  Now, in our milestone tenth year, we welcome over 225,000 visitors to experience 520 events featuring 700 artists and makers.

"Our mission remains unwavering: to celebrate outstanding craftsmanship from across the UK and beyond, leveraging the vibrancy, diversity, and serendipity of our beloved city. In our own small way, I believe we have contributed to London's cultural tapestry and reinforced the significance of the craft."

In May this year, one of the key happenings of LCW will be an opportunity to admire the work of renowned American artist Dale Chihuly who is known throughout his illustrious 60-year career for utilising glass as his primary medium to explore the interaction of form with light and space. 

Within the grounds of the luxurious residential complex in Chelsea Barracks, located in Belgravia, London, will be the inaugural edition of the public art initiative "Modern Masters." This free outdoor programme will feature a selection of works by Chihuly, strategically positioned throughout the complex.  This first exhibition of "Modern Masters" invites the public to immerse themselves in Chihuly's captivating glass sculptures amidst the architectural splendor and public grounds of Belgravia.

Greeting visitors in the Grand Entrance of the V&A museum in London, is a spectacular chandelier by American artist Dale Chihuly,  suspended from the domed roof.

Chihuly is no stranger to London as his amazing work can currently be admired at the Victoria and Albert Museum (V & A) in South Kensington, London.  Adorning the Grand Entrance of the iconic museum, suspended from the domed roof is a spectacular chandelier, specifically crafted by Chihuly and his team.

Named the Rotunda Chandelier, this masterpiece is part of Chihuly's renowned "Chandelier" series, inspired by Venetian chandeliers. With its approximately 2000 components, comprising blown glass and steel, and weighing an impressive 1724 kilograms, it stands as the largest in the series, crafted in Seattle, USA.

And in May this year, as in previous years, in partnership with LCW, the V&A South Kensington will have a museum-wide programme featuring an array of events. Visitors can witness demonstrations spanning various galleries, from weaving to silversmithing, couture, ceramics, and woodwork. 

LCW will also host an international craft symposium, offering panel discussions and keynote speeches by leading figures in the field. Topics will include the expanded craft lexicon of the past decade, digital innovations, the legacy of skills passed through apprenticeships, and the intersection of craftsmanship with luxury.

Photos by Lucia Carpio

Fashion and Culture: NAOMI: In Fashion - 22 June 2024 – 6 April 2025 at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London

Renowned as a global icon in the realm of fashion, Naomi Campbell gracing magazine covers and leading prestigious catwalk shows has become synonymous with her illustrious career. 

The NAOMI: In Fashion exhibition presents Naomi's expansive collection of haute couture and top-tier ready-to-wear outfits, complemented by contributions from designer archives and selections from the V&A's own collection. In the image above, Naomi models one of her favourite ensembles by Alexander McQueen, surrounded by other notable designs. From left to right, we see creations by Nigerian designer Kenneth Ize, showcased at Paris Fashion Week; an elegant Alexander McQueen gown, worn at the 2019 Fashion Icon Awards; a timeless piece by Azzedine Alaïa; a sophisticated grey pantsuit and matching coat from the BOSS 2023 campaign; and the iconic Vivienne Westwood platform shoes, immortalised by her infamous catwalk stumble.
Photo by Dave Benett/Getty Images for the Victoria & Albert Museum 

Now, poised to take center stage at the Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A) in a major exhibition dedicated solely to her, the aura of her stardom is set to ascend to new heights. This week, the V&A has unveiled further details about NAOMI: In Fashion, supported by BOSS and slated to commence this summer, offering an immersive journey through Campbell's unparalleled four-decade-long journey as a fashion model and cultural luminary. 

Sonnet Stanfill, Senior Curator, Fashion, V&A, said: “Naomi Campbell’s extraordinary career intersects with the best of high fashion. She is recognised worldwide as a supermodel, activist, philanthropist, and creative collaborator, making her one of the most prolific and influential figures in contemporary culture. We’re delighted to be working with Naomi Campbell on this project and to celebrate her career with our audiences.”

Naomi Campbell said: “I’m honoured to be asked by the V&A to share my life in clothes with the world.
Photo (c) Steven Meisel

A pioneer in her field, Campbell's iconic prowess on the catwalk and her transformative collaborations with top fashion houses, publications, and renowned photographers have solidified her status as a perennial presence in the global fashion landscape. Beyond her runway feats, Campbell's influence extends into cultural leadership, activism, and advocacy for emerging creatives, transcending conventional boundaries of the fashion model role.

The V&A Museum stated that the "groundbreaking exhibition" had been crafted with the model's creative guidance and supervision. Campbell, now a mother of two and continuing to thrive, was among the pioneering individuals dubbed as a "supermodel" - a term reserved for models who have attained international fame - alongside her contemporaries Linda Evangelista, Cindy Crawford, Christy Turlington, and Claudia Schiffer.
As the sponsor of the exhibition, BOSS proudly showcases Naomi Campbell in its storefront window on
Regent Street in London.
Photo by Lucia Carpio

Developed in close collaboration with Campbell herself, NAOMI: In Fashion promises to be a groundbreaking exhibition, amplifying her voice and perspective. Drawing from Campbell's personal haute couture and ready-to-wear wardrobe spanning pivotal moments in her career, as well as contributions from designer archives and items from the V&A's collections, the exhibition will offer a comprehensive portrayal of her impact.

Courtesy Mugler Archives. Photo Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Among the highlights are a striking Thierry Mugler corset inspired by a car from 1989, a memorable ensemble from Sarah Burton's final Alexander McQueen show, a radiant Valentino outfit worn at the 2019 Met Gala, and the towering Vivienne Westwood platform shoes famously worn by Campbell during her iconic 1993 catwalk mishap. 

Courtesy Azzedine Alaïa Foundation. Photo Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Featuring approximately 100 looks and accessories representing the pinnacle of global haute couture, the exhibition will showcase designs by top designers and brands such as Alexander McQueen, Azzedine Alaïa, Burberry, Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Gianni and Donatella Versace, Jean Paul Gaultier, John Galliano, Karl Lagerfeld, Kenneth Ize, Torishéju Dumi, Valentino, Virgil Abloh, Vivienne Westwood, Yves Saint Laurent, and many more.

This exhibition showcases Naomi's extensive wardrobe of haute couture and leading ready-to-wear ensembles, supplemented by loans from designer archives and items from the V&A collection.  It delves into the amazing 40-year career of British fashion model.  Regarded as a pioneer in her field, Campbell's renowned ability to dominate the catwalk, coupled with her unique collaborations with major fashion houses, publications, and top photographers, ensure her enduring presence in both the fashion industry and the British cultural milieu.

Beyond her modeling feats, she extends her influence through cultural leadership, activism, and advocacy for emerging talents, transcending the conventional confines of the fashion model role.

Naomi Campbell behind the scenes in the fashion and textile department of the V&A Museum.

In addition to showcasing exquisite garments and fashion accessories, the exhibition places a significant emphasis on fashion photography. A curated selection of captivating imagery by esteemed photographers including Campbell Addy, Nick Knight, Peter Lindbergh, and Steven Meisel will be featured, curated by the British editor and stylist Edward Enninful OBE who was the editor-in-chief of British Vogue and the European editorial director of Condé Nast. 

Furthermore, the exhibition will pay tribute to Campbell's mentors, among them notable figures such as Nelson Mandela, whose advocacy inspired her to utilize her platform for social change. Campbell's commitment to equity dates back to her involvement with the Black Girls Coalition in 1989 and her prominent role in fronting the groundbreaking 'black issue' of Vogue Italia in 2007. Alongside Bethann Hardison and Iman, she has been a steadfast advocate for The Diversity Coalition since 2013, advocating for increased diversity on the catwalk.

Additionally, the exhibition will shine a spotlight on Campbell's ongoing support of emerging creatives, demonstrated through initiatives such as Arise Fashion Week and her global venture, EMERGE, established in 2022.