Isabelle de Borchgrave's Pulp Fashion

On the recommendation of my Art History teacher, my best friend Clare and I ventured our way to San Francisco's Legion of Honor to see their newest exhibit, Pulp Fashion.

Here is what the Legion of Honor has to say about the exhibit,
"Belgian artist Isabelle de Borchgrave is a painter by training, but textile and costume are her muses. Working in collaboration with leading costume historians and young fashion designers, de Borchgrave crafts a world of splendor from the simplest rag paper. Painting and manipulating the paper, she forms trompe l’oeil masterpieces of elaborate dresses inspired by rich depictions in early European painting or by iconic costumes in museum collections around the world.
Pulp Fashion draws on several themes and presents quintessential examples in the history of costume—from Renaissance finery of the Medici family and gowns worn by Elizabeth I and Marie-Antoinette to the creations of the grand couturiers Frederick Worth, Paul Poiret, Christian Dior, and Coco Chanel. Special attention is given to the creations and studio of Mariano Fortuny, the eccentric early-20th-century artist who is both a major source of inspiration to de Borchgrave and a kindred spirit."

It is truely amazing to think that these pieces she has created are all made of paper. Isabelle works on bringing these amazing art costumes to life! It is hard to get the full effect through photographs, but when I saw the work in person I was in awe. What was really spectacular was the minute detail made on each article. Particularly in the Medici women reproductions, the pattern work on the gown portions, are incredible.

The Exhibit is open until June 5th! If you are able, make a trip to San Francisco, it is worth it. It may be paper fashion, but fashion nonetheless and well worth seeing in person.

Here are a few of the pieces at the Legion of Honor



This video is so great! An interview with the artist about her work and process.





credit and more information here

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