Alexander McQueen
Monday, August 8th, 2011
Photo courtesy of Met Museum
Like a moth to a flame, there is nothing like hype to draw one to something. I had been hearing about the exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum on fashion designer Alexander McQueen for a while, but I procrastinated to see it. So two weekends ago, we tried but the wait was two hours; we bailed. However, after reading more great reviews, I decided I should really go see this! I thought maybe during the week would be less busy, not true. So fast forward to this past Saturday night when, after dinner, my husband and I trekked across the park and got in line at 8:45pm (the Met extended their hours till midnight the last two days). I thought our chances were good because it was late and it was raining. The line moved quickly and we were inside fifteen minutes later (the building only friends). We then snaked around the museum for another two and a half hours. I have to say at least we had things to look at and talk about while waiting. Finally we were at the front with all the masses.
Not Grand Central but the Met at 10:00pm!
McQueen made use of everyday materials (feathers, shells, metal, etc) to create some of the most interesting designs for fashion. His designs were not just fashion but theatre. He created an emotion around each of his designs and I sensed that at each grouping. Some of his designs were dark, some light and dreamy. The intricate details that create the overall silhouette are stunning. The layers, the seams and ribbing…I wondered how long it took to create each piece. It’s one thing to sketch such imaginative designs but to be able to execute them in such a precise, perfect way is pure talent.
Beyond the fashion, the installation was amazing. Antiqued mirrors, intricate wood floors and walls lit with dramatic lighting all enveloped the viewer. It was a sensory experience and I can only believe that is what McQueen would have wanted. I’ve looked at several of his shows online and can’t help but think theatre. He used classical music but also a little Lady Gaga. His models don’t just strut but they act and move in a way that makes one a bit uneasy.
I know something has influenced me when I keep returning to analyse it in my mind. I’m sad this brilliant mind is gone but thankful to have seen the show at the Met. So was it hype? No, not at all.
I choose not to copy photos from the Met because they did a great job putting so much info there. Please explore as it is worth the time. Enjoy!
Pictures of the exhibit from the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Well worth the visit for the photography.
My Favorite Pieces:
http://blog.metmuseum.org/alexandermcqueen/oyster-dress-irere/
http://blog.metmuseum.org/alexandermcqueen/ensemble-voss-2/
http://blog.metmuseum.org/alexandermcqueen/dress-highland-rape/
http://blog.metmuseum.org/alexandermcqueen/dress-horn-of-plenty/
