Written by Tabitha Jennings
As you enter The Korean Couture: Generations of Revolution exhibition at the Cleveland Museum of Art you are met with photos capturing the essence of their homeland while highlighting the art within their classical architectural designs. The stages are set with custom garments on mannequins displaying breathtaking pieces by notable and respected Korean designers such as André Kim, Lie Sang Bong, Lee Chung Chung, Lee Jean Youn; and Shin Kyu Yong and Park Ji Sun. This exhibition showcases the complexity of fashion in a way that connects with all.
Photo by Tabitha Jennings
If you enjoy fashion, art or history then this exhibition will be a wonderful experience for you. As you walk through the exhibition you will follow the revolution of Korea through the timeline of fashion in an alluring way sure to enchant. With over two dozen works displayed, the variety of pieces from historic ceremonial silk robes from the 1500’s and 1600’s, to notable runway collectibles are exceptional. There are true statement pieces that transcend time, giving you flashbacks to some of your earliest memories. One of my favorite pieces was a classical suit design by Lee Chung Chung, where you could see his inspiration from Coco Chanel.
I spoke to DarnellJamal Lisby, Assistant Curator of Fashion at the museum, asking him who was his favorite designer and he stated he does not have a favorite because he likes all of their aesthetics for different reasons. His feelings are understandable as I found myself appreciating the different elements of each design and designer.
While enjoying the exhibit you can become immersed into the Korean fashion culture, by reading the display cards that provide context for each piece. The showcase takes you on a journey and shows you the 17th-century Korean fashion to the modern and eccentric designs of today. There was a purple iridescent butterfly dress by Lie Sang Bong that mirrored a fairytale essence within its design that was astonishing. During the tour we learned how innovative some designers were by using more sustainable and recyclable materials such as paper. Sooa Im McCormick, Korea Foundation Curator of Korean Art at the museum, explained that paper was used on collars and sleeve areas so they could be easily replaced when needed.
This showcase is free and open to the public through October 13, 2024 located in the Kelvin and Eleanor Smith Foundation Gallery at The Cleveland Museum of Art. Parking is available in their connected garage at a rate of $7 for members and $14 for non-members. There is also a cozy cafeteria with a diverse selection of meals starting as low as $14.
Photo by S. Black