At this time in the academic year, weeks can become blurs that look vaguely like the inside of a studio but mostly like development work and final-year-collection stress. Whatever your fashion discipline, sometimes taking a step back and reconnecting with the wider world of fashion, art, textiles and photography, can give the energetic inspirational encouragement that you need to keep working.
To fire up your creativity, we've collated five of the most exciting exhibitions happening across the UK now. From the free 'ARTIST ROOMS: Roy Lichtenstein in Focus' at the Tate Liverpool, to . 'Wallace Sewell: 25 Years of British Textile Design' at the Fashion and Textile Museum here are five places to wander round with a camera to rejuvenate yourself and your work!
Balenciaga: Shaping Fashion
Leaving The Guardian lost for words other than “wow” this really is a must see. 2018 marks the 100th year since the commencement of the Spanish couturier’s first boutique, so to celebrate, 120 of Balenciaga’s sculptural designs presented to the public.
The V&A also proudly stated that in order to allow visitors to fully appreciate the complexity of construction involved in Balenciaga’s designs, many pieces of clothing are accompanied with x-rays, sketches, photographs and film.
Where: V&A (Victoria and Albert Museum), London
When: 27 May 2017 – 18 February 2018
ARTIST ROOMS: Roy Lichtenstein in Focus
When in doubt, look to one of the most instrumental artists of the 20th century.
This collection of art is bound to inspire you to create, whether it’s the use of overly dramatic speech, restricted but iconic use of colour, or his ability to manipulate the commercial into art. The best of Roy Lichtenstein’s bright and bold work is on view in the Tate in Liverpool!
Did we mention that this exhibition is free?
Where: Tate Liverpool
When: 22 September 2017 – 17 June 2018
Coming Out: Sexuality, Gender and Identity
This exhibition brings together a diverse range of artists who have all used their work to explore sexuality and gender identity since 1967, when the law in England and Wales concerning the decriminalisation of homosexual acts was changed.
Drawing from the collections of both the Arts Council and the Walker Gallery, this show includes the word from artists such as David Hockney, Steve McQueen, and Sarah Lucas.
Where: Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
When: 2 December 2017 – 15 April 2018
Wallace Sewell: 25 Years of British Textile Design
Do you want to set up your own distinctive and successful textile business? Or simply interested in the paths that are available to you in textiles? This exhibition showcases a lifetime of textile industry knowledge.
Textile designers Harriet Wallace-Jones and Emma Sewell originally graduated from Royal College of Art and went on to set up the design studio Wallace Sewell. Inspired by their surrounding landscapes, their creations take colourful and geometric forms. From scarves to cushions, their woven masterpieces are sold in over 200 stockists worldwide.
This presentation marks the 25th anniversary of one of the textile industries best success stories, go along and find out more.
Where: Fashion and Textile Museum, London
When: 20 October – 21 January 2018
Instant Stories: Wim Wenders' Polaroids
This show lets us see Oscar nominated Director Wim Wenders’ previously unseen Polaroid photos; this exhibition offers a rare glimpse through the director’s personal viewfinder.
The photos give you an intimate insight into Wenders’ initial inspirations, travels, idols, and preoccupations. In a world where we are so focused on immediacy and the digital this exhibition gives a reason to pause. Why not try seeing the world from someone else’s perspective for an hour or two?
Where: The Photographers' Gallery, London
When: 20 October 2017 – 11 February 2018
Make sure to visit the Art Fund for a full list of all the exhibitions open around the UK for 2018.
Words by Paris Richardson