19 Jul 2010

Hussein Chalayan at Istanbul Modern

hussein chalayan: 1994-2010

Istanbul Modern presents the most comprehensive exhibition in Turkey of works by Hussein Chalayan, one of the leading names of contemporary art and fashion.

Presenting fashion as an area for exploration, where concepts find an expression, Hussein Chalayan challenges the preconceived notions about the meaning of clothing. Inspired by ideas drawn from disciplines not readily associated with fashion, and motivated by the political, social and economic realities of today, he creates designs that explore his conceptual ideas with a philosophical approach. His garments are imbued with the thought processes behind them while his acclaimed runway shows function as performance pieces. Besides fashion collections, he makes installations, directs short films and designs costumes for stage.

Previously presented at the Design Museum, London and the Museum of Contemporary Art, Tokyo, this touring exhibition curated by Donna Loveday brings together fashion collections, installations and films produced by Hussein Chalayan between the years 1994 and 2010. The selected works are inspired by architecture, philosophy, science, history, anthropology, biology and technology and reflect Chalayan's views on a range of themes including genetics, technological progress, displacement, migration and cultural identity.

A joint effort of the Istanbul Textile and Apparel Exporters' Associations (ITKIB), the 2010 European Capital of Culture Agency, Istanbul Fashion Week 2010, Istanbul Fashion Academy (IMA), Istanbul Modern and the Design Museum, London, the exhibition 'Hussein Chalayan: 1994-2010' will be on view at Istanbul Modern between 15 July and 24 October 2010, as part of the Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture events.