The Costume Institute at The Metropolitan Museum of Art is preparing to showcase the extravagance and theatricality of fashion with its highly anticipated spring 2019 exhibition titled ‘Camp: Notes on Fashion.’ Sponsored by Gucci and supported by Condé Nast, this exhibition will be open to the public from May 9 to September 8, 2019.
Inspired by Susan Sontag’s iconic 1964 essay ‘Notes on ‘Camp,’ the exhibition will delve into the world of camp and explore how fashion designers have embraced this unique style throughout history. With around 250 objects on display, including womenswear, menswear, sculptures, paintings, and drawings spanning from the 17th century to the present day, visitors can witness the fascinating evolution of camp fashion.
Among the featured designers are industry giants such as Virgil Abloh, Giorgio Armani, Ashish, Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, Dapper Dan for Gucci, and Demna Gvasalia. Max Hollein, the director of The Met, has emphasized the importance of recognizing camp’s disruptive nature and its profound influence on both high art and popular culture.
The grand opening of ‘Camp: Notes on Fashion’ will be preceded by The Costume Institute Benefit, also known as the Met Gala, on May 6. This year’s co-chairs include the likes of Lady Gaga, Alessandro Michele, Harry Styles, Serena Williams, and Anna Wintour. The exhibition seeks to challenge traditional notions of beauty and taste, while celebrating the significant role that camp has played in shaping the history of art and fashion.
For more information on ‘Camp: Notes on Fashion’ and The Costume Institute at The Met, visit their official website here. Additionally, to explore past exhibitions and events at The Met, check out their archive here.
