This summer, the Design Exchange, will host iconic French luxury designer Christian Louboutin and his retrospective exhibition. From June 21 to September 15, 2013, the widely celebrated exhibition, which garnered record attendance at the Design Museum, will captivate Toronto with an intimate look at the designer's inspirations and innovative designs.
"We're so honored to be hosting the work of this world-respected designer. The Design Exchange is thrilled to offer Canadians the unique opportunity to look into the creative design process behind such a desired brand," commented Shauna Levy, President, Design Exchange, who, since her appointment to the DX last year, worked closely with the Design Museum to secure the travelling show. "We want to show people that design is not just about buildings and furniture, that it can be seen in every facet of our everyday life - from our red-soled shoes to the box they came in, the shop we bought them in to the vehicle we took to get there."
This unmissable exhibition offers an immersion into the world of Louboutin, featuring exhibits from his personal atelier, iconic designs and one-off creations, showcasing his masterful craftsmanship and use of unique materials. Examining the diverse sources of his creativity, museum visitors will discover how inspirations, including far-reaching travels, film, architecture and showgirl performances are translated into fantastical designs. A section will be devoted to the shoes Louboutin designed for the 2007 'Fetish' exhibit, produced in collaboration with acclaimed artist David Lynch.
The DX will showcase a captivating look into the designer's career on the museum's historic Trading Floor, curated by Donna Loveday, Head of Curatorial at the Design Museum, London. The artistry behind the distinguished red-soles will be explored, celebrating Louboutin's design method through to the creation of the finished shoe. Incorporating initial sketches, raw materials and re-creations of the designer's Parisian studio, the exhibition aims to reveal the unique fusion of fashion, artistry, engineering and sculpture in every shoe.
"The focus of the exhibition is for guests to get up close and personal with every stage of Christian's design journey, ultimately revealing how Louboutin shoes have come to represent style, glamour, power, femininity and elegance around the world," explained exhibition curator, Donna Loveday. Museum guests will learn that Louboutin is meticulously involved in every step, from initial prototypes, construction and factory production to the company's innovative store front planning and design.
Photos: Luke Hayes