Stepping into the extraordinary world of Iris Van Herpen at Brisbane's QAGOMA felt like entering a realm where science, fashion, art, and cutting-edge design converge. The exhibition, aptly named "Sculpting the Senses," immersed me in the intricate designs and sheer magnificence of Van Herpen's visionary creations.

Renowned for her groundbreaking approach to fashion, Dutch-born designer Iris Van Herpen embodies the fusion of art, science, and cutting-edge design, pushing the boundaries of contemporary fashion. Her exhibition is a tribute to her visionary creativity, presenting a curated selection of her most iconic works as seen on celebrities such as Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, and Jennifer Lopez. This exclusive exhibition invites visitors from across Australia and around the world to experience fashion in an entirely new, sensory dimension.

Growing up surrounded by nature, Van Herpen discovered fashion in her grandmother’s attic, where a mini-museum of garments sparked her passion. After studying at ArtEZ University of the Arts in Arnhem, she interned with the legendary Alexander McQueen in London and launched her own label at 23. Since 2007, Van Herpen has been based in a small Amsterdam atelier, committed to slow and sustainable fashion. She is acclaimed for pioneering the use of 3D printing in garment design.

The ocean's depths inspire her iconic creations, the universe's mysteries, nature's forms, and futuristic concepts of humanity. Through her innovative vision, fashion is redefined, moving beyond conventional ideas of femininity to embrace a more open, liberated, and avant-garde expression.

At the heart of the exhibition is Van Herpen's use of 3D printing technology, which she employs to create intricate, otherworldly garments that seem to defy gravity and conventional fabric constraints. Each piece is a sculptural masterpiece, crafted with meticulous attention to detail and an imaginative flair. The integration of cutting-edge techniques with high fashion results in garments that are as much pieces of art as they are clothing.

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The exhibition’s design is carefully curated to reflect Van Herpen’s creative philosophy. As visitors move through the space, they encounter a series of immersive environments that enhance their sensory experience. From the shimmering, ethereal quality of her “Hypermotion” collection to the intricate textures of her “Gravity” collection, each display is designed to evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity.

A key highlight of the exhibition is the interactive component, which allows visitors to engage with the materials and techniques behind Van Herpen’s designs. Through augmented reality experiences and multimedia presentations, guests can explore the processes that bring her visionary creations to life, gaining insight into the interplay of technology and craftsmanship.

"Sculpting the Senses" is more than an exhibition; it is a celebration of the fusion between art, fashion, and science. It challenges traditional notions of what fashion can be, offering a glimpse into a future where clothing transcends its utilitarian function to become a form of expressive art. For fashion enthusiasts, art lovers, and anyone with a curiosity for the intersection of technology and design, this exhibition promises an unforgettable experience.

Running exclusively at QAGOMA from 29 June to 7 October 2024, Iris Van Herpen’s "Sculpting the Senses" is a must-see event in Brisbane. It stands as a testament to the power of innovation and creativity in redefining the boundaries of fashion and art. Click here to purchase tickets.

Experiencing this exhibition firsthand was nothing short of magical. The way Van Herpen's passion for nature collides with her innovative spirit gave me a glimpse into her unique, mystical interpretation of fashion futurism and beauty. It’s an experience that left me inspired and awestruck, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking to be transported into the future of fashion.

‍^{Words by Lucy Bond}