Words by The Guardian & Priya Elan
Fashion designer J.W.Anderson is set offer a rare glimpse into his artistic process, in a “provocative” new art exhibition.
Anderson, who has put ideas of gender subversion at the heart of his fashion shows, will oversee the Disobedient Bodies exhibition at The Hepworth gallery in Wakefield next spring. It will show the intersection between modern art, fashion and sexuality
In a statement, Anderson said: “I want the exhibition to mirror the speed and unexpected encounters that characterise the way in which we consume images today, as well as being a space in which to explore ideas of gender and identity that have been an going part of my creative practice.”
Different gallery spaces in The Hepworth will deal with different aspects of Anderson’s creative vision. One of the rooms will showcase the inspirations behind his iconic Autumn Winter 2013 men’s collection which featured leather dresses and Marigold-esque gloves. Another will feature works that have inspired the designers including the photographer of Jamie Hawkesworth. While the third will feature the artworks of Sarah Lucas, Barbara Hepworth and Louise Bourgeois alongside the clothes from Dior, Comme Des Garcon and more. The centre point of this gallery space will be an interactive instillation designed by Anderson.
It will be part of a continuum of the designer whose side projects have seen him expanding his creative output. As well as successful menswear and womenswear shows, which were typically inventive and idea filled, Anderson designed a micro stamp and collaborated with rapper A$AP Rocky drawing inspiration from Blaxploitation films.
