MAD showcases the sensational opening of 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses'

'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses' is a breathtaking new exhibition that debuted at MAD in Paris. This exhibition features works crafted from unusual materials such as Mylar, acrylic, silicon, banana leaf fibers, eco-leather, thermo-plaster polymers, polyurethane, glass organza, and komon koubou, which are not typically associated with haute couture. Iris van Herpen, the creator behind this show, may not be universally recognized, but she has gained critical acclaim for her ephemeral and technologically advanced haute couture.

Despite her youth - she is just 39 years old. Van Herpen's impressive career justified an exhibit at the Museum Des Art Décoratifs (MAD), a branch of the Louvre located on rue de Rivoli. Born in Wamel, a small southern Dutch town in 1984, she studied at an art college in Arnhem and later worked for Alexander McQueen. In 2007, Iris established her own fashion house in Amsterdam and got an invitation to the Paris Chambre Syndicale only four years later.

It was in Paris that van Herpen developed a uniquely interdisciplinary language and a continuously evolving body of work that brings together 3D printing, chemistry, performance art, dance, and unusual fabrications. Her biomorphic creations have a life-like quality and are often seen on concert stages, red carpets, or art movies.

The exhibit also displays the Dutch couturier's ability to work with traditional couture fabrics. For instance, Jennifer Lopez wore a mesmerizing décolleté gown made of silk organza, duchess satin, and tulle. Lady Gaga, on the other hand, wore a gown made from a cascading wave of PETG, glass organza, and thermo-plaster polymer from the 2020 'Sensory Seas' collection.

This project, which van Herpen has been working on for two years, is a reflection of the interplay between technology and nature. The exhibition noticeably pairs multiple looks with the materials and life forms that inspired them, from Wim Delvoye's conceptualist sculptures to Enrico Ferrarini’s disturbing human face plaster statue.

When asked if she sees herself as an artist or a fashion designer, van Herpen replied, "Both, I cannot separate the two. I think fashion can be a form of art that can really transcend you." 'Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses' will be open at MAD from Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2023, to Sunday, April 28, 2024.