Europe's Hidden Gems: A Curated Exhibition Guide
This week's blog post is dedicated to all the jet setters seeking city breaks this summer in Europe (please take the train lol). No matter where you're travelling , the continent offers numerous exhibitions for you to explore during your trip, ensuring you can indulge in arts and culture whilst away.
We've all felt the frustration of missing out on incredible exhibitions abroad. That's why we've curated a list of must-see European exhibitions this summer. Let us inspire your next cultural adventure.
Barbie: The Exhibition – The Design Museum, London
Barbie continues to be influential beyond 2023, as "Barbie: The Exhibition" has debuted on the 65th anniversary of the iconic brand. This exhibition delves into the history of Barbie, originating in 1959 by Ruth Handler. Exploring various design aspects such as fashion, architecture, furniture, and vehicle design, the exhibition will showcase the evolution of the world's most famous dolls. In collaboration with Mattel Inc., the exhibition will display Barbie archives from California, honouring over six decades of Barbie history. Running from July 5, 2024 to February 23, 2025, you can buy tickets here.
Yuima Nakazato: Beyond Couture — La Cité De La Dentelle Et De La Mode, Calais
The Museum of Lace and Fashion is currently honouring the innovative Japanese designer Yuima Nakazato with a special exhibition that showcases over 50 pieces from the YUIMA NAKAZATO brand's couture collections spanning from 2016 to 2024. Visitors can explore sketches, fabric samples, photos, and accessories, offering insight into the creative process behind these exceptional designs.
What sets the brand apart is its commitment to upcycling materials and waste to promote sustainable fashion. Nakazato draws inspiration from nature and Asian influences, crafting garments with a forward-thinking and eco-friendly approach. Running from 15th June 2024 to 5th January 2025, you can buy tickets here.
Naomi - V&A South Kensington, London
This exhibition showcases approximately 100 outfits from the extensive haute couture collection of British supermodel Naomi Campbell, featuring pieces from designer archives. There is also a special installation that pays tribute to Campbell through images captured by top fashion photographers like Nick Knight, Steven Meisel, and Tim Walker. Moreover, the exhibition will recognise Campbell's activism, particularly her efforts with The Diversity Coalition to promote diversity on the runway… Running from 22nd June 2024 onwards, you can get your tickets here.
La Mode En Mouvement ['Fashion On The Move'] — Palais Galliera, Paris
"Fashion on the Move" delves into the history of fashion from the 18th century to the present day using Palais Galliera’s collections. The exhibition focuses on a central theme of the body in motion. In collaboration with the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the showcase explores the role of clothing in physical and sporting pursuits, its connection to movement, and the societal impacts of its evolution. With a display of more than 200 pieces, "Fashion on the Move" illustrates the adaptation of women's attire for physical activities in the late 19th century and the shift towards more masculine women’s clothing. Ultimately, the exhibition aims to demonstrate how the freedom of movement through physical activities has influenced changes in beauty standards. Running from 16th June 2023 to 7th September 2025, you can get tickets here.
Yoko Ono Music Of The Mind - Tate Modern, London
From activist initiatives to avant-garde music and prohibited films, the showcase at Tate Modern, 'Yoko Ono: Music of the Mind,' welcomes visitors to explore seven decades of Ono's inspiring career. The exhibition offers an imaginative and interactive glimpse into the diverse stages of Ono's life. It also provides a closer look at her most renowned years in London from 1966 to 1971, during which she crossed paths with John Lennon. Running 15th February to the 1st September 2024, you can get tickets here.
Dalí Cybernetics, Lisbon
We've heard lots of enthusiastic reviews about the Lisbon exhibition showcasing Salvador Dalí, the renowned surrealist artist of the 20th century.
The innovative "Dalí: Cybernetics" exhibit in Lisbon stands out as one of the most futuristic displays the city has ever hosted. It features 360º projections, interactive zones, and virtual reality glasses that transport visitors to Dalí's surreal parallel worlds. Started last November and running until 1st September 2024, you can get your tickets here.
Moco Masters, London
Opening on August 10th for the first time ever, Moco Museum in London will be home to the artistic journeys of the enduring legacies of artists within our modern and contemporary art history. From Andy Warhol to Damien Hirst, the exhibition will show how these icons have forever revolutionised art. Get your tickets here.
This is just a taste of what Europe's vibrant exhibition scene has to offer. We encourage you to explore further and discover your own cultural gems. If you have a specific city in mind, reach out to us for personalised recommendations. ;)
Love,
Scarlet Destiny X
[info sourced on designmuseum.org, cite-dentelle.fr, vam.ac.uk, palaisgalliera.paris.fr, spherelife.com, tate.org.uk, mocomuseum.com; images sourced on canva.com]