Fifty key garments from the world’s largest private collection of Alexander McQueen designs are on display at the Grand Rapids Art Museum.
Jennifer Wcisel is the GRAM’s Curator of Collections and Exhibitions.
“You’ll see incredible quilted suede and his unique use of leather and fur and mixing patterns and materials.”
The exhibition explores his friendship with French photographer Ann Ray, an up-and-coming photographer in the 1990’s McQueen asked to capture his life backstage at fashion shows.
“McQueen felt really strongly that he wanted someone to know him and to see what his life was like at that time and to catalogue and record it in these beautiful photographs.”
GRAM Director and CEO Cindy Foley says the exhibition offers visitors a connection beyond the clothes.
McQueen dealt with social issues such as violence against women and mental health through his art, influencing fashion and culture to this day.
“He took fashion to places no one imagined we could go, and I’m not sure we’ll see a something quite like it… until the next McQueen comes.”
The exhibition titled “Lee Alexander McQueen and Ann Ray: Rendez-Vous” runs October 5 through mid-January with free admission on designated days and special events throughout.
Details can be found on the GRAM's website.
