Iris Van Herpen Solo Exhibition

About the Project

I had the privilege of curating Iris Van Herpen’s solo exhibition at The Cartel gallery space in Alserkal Avenue, marking the first time her groundbreaking work was showcased in the MENA region. With the designer's presence at the opening, the gallery space was transformed into a hub for wearable art, hosting a highly anticipated event that celebrated the pioneering vision of the world’s first digital-coded couture designer.

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A recipient of the Vogue ANDAM Award and the Dutch Design Award, Iris van Herpen has redefined the boundaries of fashion by seamlessly blending nature, art, technology and craftsmanship. Her innovative approach to couture, which includes creating her own materials and collaborating with leading scientists, has elevated fashion to an entirely new realm. For this exhibition, I included twelve iconic haute couture pieces, including work from her acclaimed collections, ‘Voltage’ and ‘Wilderness,’ which captured her bold imagination and revolutionary aesthetic. The evening was not just a showcase of artistry but a celebration of the synergy between technology and human creativity, offering our audience a glimpse into the future of design.

From magnetic couture to glass-blown sculptures and 3D-printed runway designs, the exhibition offered a glimpse into the limitless possibilities of design when driven by the power of science and technology. To maximize its impact, the gallery hosted a series of panel discussions and welcomed university students from design colleges, providing a platform for them to engage with the work, gain inspiration and explore the intersection of creativity and innovation.