Paul Smith, the renowned British fashion designer, is preparing to showcase a major exhibition in his hometown of Nottingham, as the UK gradually lifts its lockdown restrictions. Nottingham Castle, which recently underwent a £30 million redevelopment, will host the exhibition titled “Hello, My Name is Paul Smith”. Opening on June 21, the exhibition will feature an astonishing collection of over 1,500 objects that mirror Smith’s personality, curiosity, and energy. Visitors can anticipate witnessing Smith’s signature use of colorful stripes, while also diving into the story of his triumphant career in the fashion industry. This collaboration between Paul Smith, the Design Museum, and Nottingham Castle aims to provide a unique and immersive experience for visitors.
Nottingham holds a special place in Paul Smith’s heart, as it was the city where he opened his inaugural small store more than half a century ago. To recreate the ambiance of his humble beginnings, a replica of his original store has been meticulously assembled within the exhibition space. Furthermore, an immersive digital room has been designed to capture the inspiration behind Smith’s iconic designs. Visitors will also have the extraordinary opportunity to explore a replica of Smith’s idiosyncratic office, where they can gain insight into his creative process.
Debbie Beardall, the director of commercial and customer services at Nottingham Castle Trust, expressed her excitement about the upcoming exhibition. She believes it is the perfect fit for the newly renovated space and praises Paul Smith as one of the city’s legendary figures and a true success story. With a captivating display of over a thousand objects and Paul Smith’s personal touch in curating the installation, Beardall believes this exhibition is an unmissable experience.
The reopening of Nottingham Castle and the subsequent Paul Smith exhibition mark a significant moment for both the castle and the city. After undergoing extensive redevelopment, the castle is now ready to welcome visitors back and provide them with a unique opportunity to celebrate the achievements of a local icon. As travel restrictions continue to ease, this exhibition has the potential to attract not only locals but also fashion enthusiasts from around the world who are eager to delve deeper into the extraordinary journey of the renowned designer.
Useful links:
– Official Paul Smith website
– Nottingham Castle official website
