Bendigo Art Gallery will be showcasing the work of fashion revolutionary Cristobal Balenciaga from 17 August to 10 November, 2019. This Australia exclusive is organised by the
Victoria and Albert Museum in London, explores the work and legacy of this renowned couturier.
Balenciaga: Shaping Fashion include garments crafted by Balenciaga from the 1950s and 1960s – arguably the most creative period of his career when he dressed some of the most renowned women of the time – through to pieces designed by protégés and contemporary designers working in the same innovative way today.

Image supplied by Bendigo Art Gallery.
The exhibition features examples of Balenciaga's revolutionary shapes – the tunic, sack, baby doll and shift dresses – all of which remain style staples today. You'll be able to view some ensembles made by Balenciaga for Hollywood actress Ava Gardner, dresses and hats belonging to socialite and 1960s fashion icon Gloria Guinness. Discover items from ballgowns to gardening shorts made by the couturier for Mona von Bismarck, one of the world's wealthiest women.
Other highlights comprise archive sketches, patterns, photographs, fabric samples and catwalk footage provide a unique insight into Balenciaga's salons and workrooms. The results of new, forensic investigations into the garments – including a collaboration with x-ray artist Nick Veasey and a digital pattern making project with the London College of Fashion – reveal the hidden details and processes which make Balenciaga's work so exceptional.
Balenciaga: Shaping Fashion exhibition also explores the lasting impact of Balenciaga, tracing his influence through the work of more than 30 fashion designers across the last 50 years.

Cristobal Balenciaga. Image from Wikipedia.
This is a ticketed exhibition. You can purchase your tickets
here.
Visit the Bendigo Art Gallery for the
Balenciaga: Shaping Fashion exhibition from 17 August to 10 November, 2019 to discover more about one of the most innovative and influential fashion designers of the 20th century.