Current Exhibition
Fashion Revolution China
Curated by Anthony Bednall
13 January - 24 February 2012
This stunning exhibition of garments, images and objects examines the changes in Chinese Fashion during three distinct periods of the 20th Century.
Many of the exhibits were archived by the curator over a ten year period while he lived and worked in Beijing. Interwoven amongst the clothing and visuals are personal stories that not only give background information and individuality to the garments but reflect the tremendous changes that took place in China both socially, economically and politically.
The exhibition’s aim is to focus on the narrative of the clothing. What becomes apparent is that each of the sections have their own unique beauty from hand-crafted embroidery, evidenced in both the early and modern pieces, through functional conformity to contemporary fashion brand development.
Fashion by its very nature, is a language of non-verbal communication, which indicates rank, occupation social standing and the effects of the shifting political and social environments.
After the demise of the Qing dynasty due to the 1911 revolution, social reform led to a change in dress codes. This was characterised by a greater freedom of expression for women, resulting in the development of the now iconic ‘qipao’ dress, which had its roots in traditional wear but became, like men’s fashion of the time, influenced by western styles of dress. Often ornate and beautifully crafted the ‘qipao’ became, by the 1930’s, the most fashionable style of female dress in China.
Contemporary China is now the second largest economy in the world and has nurtured its own fashion industry. As well as manufacturing garments for internationally recognised brands, local designers are creating beautiful collections and extravagant fashion events, which reflect new found wealth and global engagement.
WestBeach, Pier Approach will exhibiting a unique artwork from the Fashion Revolution China exhibition, in the restaurant. Please visit their website for directions http://www.west-beach.co.uk/
The exhibition is accompanied by a publication which illustrates the background and narrative to the garments that are being exhibited. Please click here to download the publication.
A text + work event
The Gallery would like to thank WestBeach for their support
1940s embroidered dress. Photograph by Zhao Yan.
Exhibition Talk, Preview and Essay/Publication Launch
Curator Anthony Bednall gives an overview of the exhibition. In conservation with Zhao Yan.
An opportunity to gain an insight into the background and inspiration for the exhibition and the accompanying essay by Anthony Bednall Fashion Revolution China.’
Zhao Yan is a direct descendent of the family members who owned many of the exhibits on display and has a unique insight into the personal narratives of many of the pieces.
Event Information
Thursday 12 January 2012
5.00 – 8.00pm
To book a place please email: gallery@aucb.ac.uk or telephone The Gallery Office on 01202 363272
A text+work event
Farewell My Concubine (Directed by
Chen Kaige, 1993)
Farewell My Concubine is one of the central works of the Fifth Generation movement that brought Chinese film directors to the world’s attention. The film explores the effect of China's political turmoil during the mid-20th century on the lives of individuals, families and groups – in this case two stars in a Peking opera troupe and the woman who comes between them.
The film is an adaptation of the novel by Lilian Lee. Lilian Lee, who is also one of the film's screenplay writers.
Farewell My Concubine remains to date the only Chinese-language film to win the Cannes Palme d'Or.
Image disclaimer: Every effort has been made to trace the copyright holders, but if any have been inadvertently overlooked the necessary arrangements will be made at the first opportunity.
Event Information
Thursday 26 January 2012
6.00 – 8.00pm
Chinese Language with English subtitles.
To book a place please email: gallery@aucb.ac.uk or telephone The Gallery Office on 01202 363272
Relevant Links
Downloads
Guo Pei, from Catwalk Collection 2007
Copyright owned by Guo Pei