Exhibition: Iris van Herpen

In September I had the opportunity to attend the Iris van Herpen Exhibition at Brisbane’s Gallery of Modern Art (QAGoMA) which I have to say was one of the best showings I have been to so far. The exhibition took up most of the bottom floor and was about 3 hours to take in her large body of work. There was this sound that was almost ASMR, like little sea shells gently brushing against each other that was almost unworldly while also having a calming effect.

The Visionary World of Iris van Herpen: A Fusion of Fashion and Art

Iris van Herpen is not just a fashion designer; she’s a visionary artist who redefines the boundaries between fashion, technology, and art. Known for her avant-garde designs, Van Herpen’s work transcends traditional fashion norms, offering a glimpse into the future of haute couture.

Born in the Netherlands in 1984, Iris van Herpen studied fashion design at ArtEZ University of the Arts in Arnhem before interning with legendary designer Alexander McQueen. Her background in classical ballet also heavily influences her work, infusing her designs with a sense of movement and fluidity. This unique blend of influences is evident in her collections, where the lines between clothing, sculpture, and performance blur.

Van Herpen is renowned for her pioneering use of technology in fashion. She was one of the first designers to incorporate 3D printing into her garments, creating intricate, sculptural pieces that seem almost otherworldly. Her work often involves collaborations with architects, engineers, and scientists, resulting in designs that challenge the very definition of clothing. For example, her “Magnetic Motion” collection was inspired by the Large Hadron Collider and explored the interaction between magnetic forces and the human body.

Her commitment to innovation doesn’t stop at technology. Van Herpen is also dedicated to sustainability, often using unconventional materials that are both eco-friendly and groundbreaking in design. Her approach to fashion is holistic, considering not just the aesthetic impact of her creations but their environmental footprint as well.

Iris van Herpen’s designs are regularly featured on the red carpet, worn by celebrities like Björk, Lady Gaga, and Cate Blanchett, but her influence extends far beyond Hollywood. Her work is frequently displayed in museums and galleries, cementing her status as a true artist whose medium happens to be fashion.

In a world where fast fashion dominates, Iris van Herpen stands out as a beacon of creativity and innovation. Her work reminds us that fashion is not just about clothing—it’s about expressing ideas, exploring new technologies, and pushing the limits of what’s possible.