The Metropolitan Museum of Art announced that Karl Lagerfeld will be the focus of its Spring 2023 Costume Institute Exhibition titled ‘A Line of Beauty’, the exhibition will act as a retrospective of sorts – despite Mr Lagerfeld’s protestation that fashion was not art and shouldn’t be in a museum – this will be an opportunity for all those who knew and loved his work, from his time at Chanel, Fendi, Chloé, Patou, Balmain, and his namesake label Karl Lagerfeld to pay homage to a legendary force within the industry.
Examining the late Lagerfeld’s work, there will be a sweeping journey through his start in the 1950s to his final collection bow in 2019.
As a way to spotlight the German designers working methods, the theme of the line will be used as a thread to show the designers journey from two-dimensions to three.
Anchoring the exhibition around English artist William Hogarth’s influential work ‘The Analysis of Beauty’ it will consider how Lagerfeld’s work diverged between the wavey or ‘Serpentine’ line as a mark of vivacity, contrasted with the straight line that signifies stability, with the two linear styles representing continuity – something the designer provided at his tenures for both Chanel and Fendi.
Renowned for his hand sketches, and often filmed within his studio visualizing ideas by putting pen to paper. These sketches are set to accompany the approximately 150 original looks that will go on display at The Met for the exhibition.
Karl Lagerfeld was one of the most captivating, prolific, and recognizable forces in fashion and culture, known as much for his extraordinary designs and tireless creative output as for his legendary persona. This immersive exhibition will unpack his singular artistic practice, inviting the public to experience an essential part of Lagerfeld’s boundless imagination and passion for innovation.
– Max Hollein, Marina Kellen French Director of The Met
To celebrate the opening of the show, as is customary, The Met Gala (also known as the Costume Institute Benefit) will take place on Monday 1st May 2023.
The 2023 exhibition and benefit will partner with and be supported by Chanel, as well as Fendi. With additional support provided by KARL LAGERFELD and Condé Nast.
