Inspiration at NGV

Following a visit to the National Gallery of Victoria I have compiled this collage of inspirational images.
I don't know what it is about the NGV. Whenever I walk through its halls I find something
new to inspire me.

Today I uncovered a hidden gem: majestical and whimsical gowns worn by emperors, ladies and kings of yesteryear. I'm talking silk, embroidery and embelishments, and that's just the men's clothing.

My obsession at the moment: 17th century mens waistcoats. I have a whole sketchbook full of them from Manstyle on show at the NGV St Kilda Rd. A collection of Male fashion through the ages. Don't know what I'll make of them but we'll see.



One of the waistcoats from Manstyle on at the NGV.














Here are some inspiring images:

Bustier. by Issey Mikake. 1980 autumn-winter

metal, opaque synthetic polymer resin, polyester flocking.

Miss Susanna Gale. c. 1763-64 by Joshuan Reynolds.

Her hairpiece is amazingly beaded. Her dress is fantastically elegant. But what is most intriguing is the way she is playing with some sort of paper doll collection.

 Susanna Highmore. c. 1740-45. Joseph Highmore.

I stood staring at her. Her expression says alot. The picture doesn't really give it justice. I love the colour of her dress and the way it is embellised with lovely lace.

The Singer Farinelli and Friends. c. 1750-52. Jacob Amigoni.

I lover the woman's bustier. The pink contrasted with blue bows and tightly hugging her frame. I really love coursettes in this way; the way that a good piece can hug and flatter a womans assets.
In the same way the male's waistcoat is amzingly detailed.

 Untitled. 1974. Robert Morris

Believe it or not this sculture is made entirely of felt. It reminded me of statement jewellry that is in fashion at the moment.
It is interesting that at the NGV this is draping on the ground and here it is clearly above the ground. It adds another dimention to have it hanging on the ground. You feel as if it is melting into the ground. Instead of symmetrical cresents you get lots of different shapes and shaddows coming from each cleverly sculptured row of felt.
I am thinking of reproducing this effect in jewellry.

The Banquet of Cleopatra by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, 1743-1744 

Colars and couture. Hushed tones and statement pieces.