Art & Textiles Excursion: Westwood / Kawakubo.
On Wednesday, February 18th, Ms Cordingley and the Year 9 Design Solutions - Textiles students went to theNational Gallery of Victoria to explore the progressive and sensational Westwood / Kawakubo Fashion Exhibition. Our peers were encouraged - and inspired - to shatter the “rules” of dresses, revolutionise the art of fashion and create their own voice through the clothes they make.
Vivienne Westwood and Rei Kawakubo are two of the most rebellious and influential designers in contemporary fashion. Through pieces in the NGV, such as the infamous “cloud dress” (Westwood, 2007) - starring in multiple modern movies and becoming a staple of pop culture - and the Comme des Garçons (Look 12, Kawakubo) - which combines both anachronistic and arbitrary features - the iconoclasts illustrate fashion to be a voice, a spark for rebellion, rather than merely clothes. They don’t fit into stereotypes - they break them. They don’t follow trends - they create them. Westwood and Kawakubo don’t meander in the past - they voyage into the future.
Our students also explored the Christian DiorExhibition, which contrasted the spunky and bold stylistic choices made by Westwood and Kawakubo. Dior emphasised minimalism, rather than flamboyance, focussing on classical themes, beading, and embroidery, rather than extravagant cuts, large accessories, and vibrant patterns. Dior’s designs took a moment to step back - to contemplate on the past. From pieces such as Sonatine, The Short Evening Dress (Dior, Paris Couture House) to Cavaliere, Suit (Dior, 1946), Christian Dior highlights a softer sense of femininity and beauty, using curved lines, warm tones and light materials. It contrasts the previous designer, using simplicity as a tool, rather than a repellent. Dior allows viewers to indulge in the past, staying pensive for a moment.
Overall, we had an insightful experience at the NGV. Whether it was gushing over Westwood and Kawakubo’s avant-garde designs, or admiring Dior’s elegant pieces, we were able to see all aspects of fashion and create an idea of what they would like to make in the future. Walking through the different galleries, viewing various pieces of art - and taking plenty of photos - allowed us to see what we liked the best… and hopefully help us create our own voices in the future!
Vinudi J (9F)
On Friday, February 20th, the second class of Year 9 Design Solutions - Textiles students attended the Westwood / Kawakubo exhibition at the NGV. We had prepared for the excursion by researching both designers, and familiarising themselves with the iconic styles.
At the exhibition, we were encouraged to explore the pieces independently, while taking note of our favourite designs. Some pieces on display included Westwood’s dramatic plaid gown, and Kawakubo’s sculptural dress, worn by Rihanna at the 2017 Met Gala. The exhibition as a whole highlights each designer’s development throughout their careers, and their ingenious use of elements to create show-stopping, diverse collections.
Along with the Westwood / Kawakubo exhibition, the NGV had a small collection of Dior pieces, which we were encouraged to explore as well. Being able to see another classic designer was a fantastic opportunity, and built upon our classroom learning.
The NGV has also created a special interactive exhibit, Let’s Party: Fashion For Kids, with creative and colourful designs on display. The activity included decorating a party-hat with stickers, and brought everyone together to have some fun at the end of the day.
To see the designer clothing close enough to notice every texture and line was an incredible excursion. The experience has helped each of us develop our understanding of design and our individual style. Moving forward through the semester, we will only grow and improve in our abilities and design solutions, after being introduced to the world of iconic fashion.
Audrey P (9G)