The Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (MNBAQ) proudly presents the Alexander McQueen: Art Meets Fashion exhibition in Québec City. This groundbreaking exhibition, running from June 15 to September 10, 2023, marks the first Canadian showcase of Lee Alexander McQueen’s extraordinary work. As a key figure in the international fashion industry from 1990 to 2010, McQueen’s designs captivated the world. Join us as we explore the creative process of this renowned designer, known as “the enfant terrible” of British fashion, and delve into the rich artistic heritage and diverse sources of inspiration that shaped his iconic collections.
1. Establishing the Importance and Scope of the Exhibition:
After captivating audiences in Los Angeles and Melbourne, the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (MNBAQ) proudly presents the Alexander McQueen: Art Meets Fashion exhibition in Québec City. From June 15 to September 10, 2023, this groundbreaking exhibition offers a unique opportunity to witness the first Canadian showcase of Lee Alexander McQueen’s transformative designs. Immerse yourself in the world of this influential designer, who left an indelible mark on the fashion industry between 1990 and 2010.
2. Presenting the Collaborative Effort:
Simons, a prominent partner, joins hands with the MNBAQ to present this extraordinary exhibition. The collaboration offers a reflection on the creative process of Lee Alexander McQueen, an artist who fearlessly pushed the boundaries of fashion. Prepare to embark on a journey that connects McQueen’s ingenious designs with artistic works spanning different periods and cultural origins. This interdisciplinary presentation explores the profound impact and inspirations that shaped McQueen’s illustrious career.
3. Highlighting the Artistic References:
Discover a world where fashion and art converge as the exhibition showcases a collection of 225 items. These objects serve as visual references, echoing McQueen’s creations and collections. Prepare to be mesmerized by works produced by art history greats like Dürer, Goya, and Picasso, as well as notable Québec artists François Baillairgé, Patrick Bernatchez, Clarence Gagnon, Holly King, Marcel Saint-Pierre, and Claire Savoie. Witness the transformation of art into a medium for genuine creative expression, offering insights into McQueen’s interdisciplinary approach.
4. Unveiling Four Key Themes:
Gain a deeper understanding of McQueen’s artistic approach through the exhibition’s four thematic threads. Myth0s explores distant inspirations from Christian iconography, the Italian Renaissance, and Greek and Roman Antiquity. Fashioned Narrative delves into McQueen’s storytelling prowess, seamlessly weaving together imaginary, autobiographical, and historical narratives. Technique and Innovation showcase McQueen’s virtuosity and his ability to reinvent fashion through innovative techniques. Lastly, Evolution and Existence examine the designer’s fascination with the cycles of life and the human condition.
5. Immersive and Captivating Staging:
Prepare to be transported into McQueen’s creative universe through the exhibition’s stylish and inspired staging. Six emblematic sections, each with its distinctive atmosphere, guide visitors through a visual feast. From The Mouseion, a sanctuary dedicated to muses and universal knowledge, to The Labyrinth, echoing Greek mythology and exploring universal themes, visitors will experience the breadth and depth of McQueen’s artistic vision. Caroline Ross, a renowned lighting and image designer, collaborates on the staging, enriching the visual experience with light, theatrical effects, and incandescent projections.
6. Showcasing Seminal Works:
Explore the exceptional creations that defined McQueen’s legacy. The exhibition presents striking collections, including The Dance of the Twisted Bull, inspired by bullfighting and complemented by artworks from Goya and Clarence Gagnon. The Widows of Culloden collection showcases exquisite romantic silhouettes inspired by McQueen’s Scottish ancestry and the natural landscapes of Scotland. The Girl Who Lived in the Tree collection merges natural vegetation with supernatural elements, drawing parallels with Arthur Rackham’s illustrations and Holly King’s captivating photograph, Lush. Witness the artistic connections between McQueen’s groundbreaking collections and seminal works of art.
7. Acknowledging Organizers, Supporters, and Sponsors:
This remarkable exhibition is organized by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art in collaboration with the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (MNBAQ). The MNBAQ extends its gratitude to the Gouvernement du Québec and the Ville de Québec for their financial support under the Entente de développement culturel. Additionally, the exhibition is made possible through the generous contributions of partners and donors to the MNBAQ Foundation.
Don’t miss the Alexander McQueen: Art Meets Fashion exhibition at the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec’s Pierre Lassonde Pavilion from June 15 to September 10, 2023. This landmark exhibition offers a captivating journey into the world of Lee Alexander McQueen, showcasing his innovative designs, profound inspirations, and extraordinary creative process. Experience the intersection of art and fashion, and be inspired by McQueen’s avant-garde vision. Book your tickets now and immerse yourself in this unforgettable encounter between art and fashion.
