Artwear

More about the book

This richly illustrated book offers a vibrant exploration of the dynamic and often provocative relationship between art and fashion. Featuring an array of imaginative wearable art, it showcases pieces such as a crocheted wool coat with vivid textures, a silk vest with baroque elegance, and a headdress shaped like a leaping fish. Other highlights include an evening gown crafted from shredded dollar bills and a kimono adorned with art appliqué. Published to accompany an exhibition at the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, the book by Melissa Leventon delves into the evolution of wearable art, tracing its roots from the Arts and Crafts movement through the hippie styles and studio fiber art of the 1960s and 1970s to contemporary creations. It emphasizes the works of leading practitioners and discusses the unique forms and processes that define this art form. The collection features everything from technically wearable pieces to one-of-a-kind works suitable for display, as well as limited-edition luxury clothing. This book serves as an essential resource for fashion designers, students, art and textiles professionals, craftspeople, and anyone interested in the intersection of fashion and art. Leventon, who served as the Curator of Textiles at the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, is now an independent consultant specializing in costumes and textiles.