This past Saturday morning I had the great pleasure of culturally enriching myself by way of the late Alexander McQueen. I confess, I have never thought of nor taken seriously the medium of fashion as art form but after being exposed to McQueen's Savage Beauty exhibit, I humbly stand corrected. McQueen's collection, for the most part, ecos his dark side to romanticism. While some of the accessories were a bit violent (head masks...spinal vest made of metal...), there was a softness to his work as well. I see the romantic schizophrenic he self proclaimed himself to be through his artwork. Fabric was is canvas as he beautifully transformed materials into works of art. I am sadden to think that the fashion world and by extension the art world has forever lost such an inspired and innovative soul. I admit his desire to empower through fashion could be a bit off-putting at times. However, his creative use of intimidation and sadomasochistic influences speaks more to his sensitivity and vulnerably which I think contributed strongly to his genius. Unfortunately, it has been said time after time that there is a thin line separating genius from insanity. I think this was the case for our visionary friend...there was too much genius in one man's head for him to cope with life, success and his particular flavors of romanticism. This exhibit is exceptional. I urge everyone to go see this. Not only are the collections breathe-taking, the overall curation and ambience throughout the exhibit makes the haunting beauty of the exhibit a completely visceral and all consuming experience.
take a look for yourself:
http://blog.metmuseum.org/alexandermcqueen/about/
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