San Francisco – Legion Of Honor
The Guo Pei exhibit in San Fransico was extensive, overwhelming (in a good way) and magical. Whether sophisticated, traditional, whimsical, avant guarde, or dark and moody, exquisite design and intricate details punctuate all of Guo Pei’s creations. More art than fashion, it seemed appropriate to be viewing the dresses in galleries along side canvases, statues and antiquities. Her ability to paint with fabric and thread, as well as the sculptural qualities of her dresses felt at home in the gallery spaces. I was fascinated by the 3 dimensional quality of the needlework, incorporating various techniques of layering thread and fabric to create a style reminiscent of the old world, but firmly planted in modern times. The exhibition included works from her first Paris show through to her 2020 runway show. Even though there is a unifying thread of obsessive detail, unsurpassed craftsmanship, fanciful creativity, and a slight playfullness, you can sense the distinct narative for each collection.
An extrodinary designer, with her team of very talented aritsans are creating masterpieces of fashion and art. Her atelier, Rose Studio, in the art district of Beijing. Often taking years to make one dress, they have the price tag to match. Her outlandish pieces are rarely sold, but according to Savior Flair magazine one sold at auction recently for over 800,000 USD. A Vogue article* indicated is takes almost 3 million dollars to put on a runway show.
Very thankful that I had the opportunity to see these Guo Pei visions in person. I look forward to seeing (if only digitally) where Guo Pei’s imagination takes us next.
If you want to know more about the designer Guo Pei, there is a documentary film entitled “Yellow is Forbidden” which is on-demand on several platforms.
* Vogue article by Brook Bobb April 23, 2018