Iris van Herpen, a renowned Dutch fashion designer, known for her exquisite haute couture pieces worn by celebrities like Beyoncé and Björk, is now venturing into the world of art with her upcoming exhibition of sculptures titled “Hybrid.” In a recent interview, she expressed her desire to break free from the constraints of traditional fashion and explore the boundaries between fashion and art.
The exhibition, set to take place on June 24 as part of Paris Haute Couture Week, will only last for 45 minutes, making it a unique and fleeting experience for art enthusiasts. Van Herpen explained that the short duration of the exhibition is intentional, as it is meant to be a hybrid performance combining live performers and installations, creating a physically intense and immersive experience for the audience.
Unlike her usual runway shows that last around 15 minutes, the “Hybrid” exhibition will offer a longer and more in-depth look into her artistic vision. The pieces showcased will feature intricate designs made from a combination of tulle, oil paint, hand-pleated silk, and 3-D printing, creating a mesmerizing and otherworldly aesthetic.
Van Herpen emphasized that she sees herself not just as a fashion designer, but as an artist who uses the human body as a canvas for her creations. Her innovative approach to design and her ability to push the boundaries of traditional fashion have earned her a reputation as a visionary in the industry.
The exhibition promises to be a one-of-a-kind experience that blurs the lines between fashion and art, inviting viewers to rethink the way they perceive and interact with clothing and sculpture. Van Herpen’s transition from fashion to art marks a new chapter in her career, where she continues to challenge conventions and redefine the relationship between the body and artistic expression.