"Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion," which ends on September 2, unpacks a deep exploration of various themes, both literally and metaphorically. Curated by Andrew Bolton, the Curator in Charge of The Costume Institute at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the exhibition follows his previous acclaimed exhibitions, such as "Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty," "China Through the Looking Glass," and "Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination." Bolton's success has significantly influenced the current landscape of fashion exhibitions, and his anthropological perspective allows him to highlight the deeper intellectual and human meanings behind the garments. 

Visitors will delve into nature and the cycle of life, while also touching on subjects like chemistry, biology, and mythology, all through the lens of fashion. Furthermore, the exhibition provides insights into The Met and its behind-the-scenes processes, addressing how archived garments are preserved and their eventual deterioration. It’s not merely about clothing but also about the stories of those who wore them, reflecting our collective narrative.

Featuring around 220 garments and accessories from the last four centuries, this exhibition engages immersive senses. Visitors can hear the sounds of crashing waves and birdsong, as well as listen to poetry readings. There are textured wallpapers to touch, and thanks to German artist Sissel Tollas, interactive elements like scratch-and-sniff wallpaper and tubes for inhalation. This exhibit part is extremely impactful, as scent is a powerful trigger for memory. Moreover, the spring 2024 exhibition also reactivates sensory experiences through various technologies, including artificial intelligence and traditional methods like x-rays and soundscapes.

Once clothing enters the Costume Institute's collection, it becomes a static 'artwork,' losing its original life and context. This exhibition aims to breathe life back into these pieces, allowing us to appreciate them as they were meant to be experienced—full of vibrancy and dynamism.

Sayart / Amia amyngwyen13@gmail.com