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The NGV Summer Blockbuster: Alexander McQueen, Mind, Mythos, Muse Opens This Week

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As if there weren't enough reasons to love the NGV, they’ve revealed that their summer blockbuster exhibition will centre around one of the most iconic designers of the late 20th Century, Alexander McQueen.

The collection, titled Alexander McQueen: Mind, Mythos, Muse will feature over 100 pieces from the London-born designer. Organised by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art in partnership with the NGV, the exhibition will also feature over 70 historical artworks including photography, painting and sculptures, that McQueen used as inspiration for his outlandish designs. 

“Alexander McQueen is beloved for his boundary-pushing and highly conceptual designs that set him apart from his contemporaries. With meticulous craftsmanship and an intellectual rigour seldom seen on the runways before or since, he created a new vocabulary for fashion design that still resonates today,” said NGV Director Tony Ellwood.

McQueen was a rockstar in the fashion world, famous for his showmanship which was supported by an exceptional technical ability. His audacious shows often sparked controversy; from a naked journalist in a glass box to models encased in fire and robots splattering a white dress in paint.

"I don't want to do a cocktail party. I'd rather people leave my shows and vomit. I prefer extreme reactions. I want heart attacks. I want ambulances," the designer once said. 

The exhibition will showcase garments from some of the designer's most acclaimed collections including the controversial Highland Rape (autumn-winter 1995–1996) and emotional The Widows of Culloden (autumn-winter 2006–2007).

Expect drama, theatrical designs and the ultimate amalgamation of contemporary fashion with timeless art. 

Alexander McQueen: Mind, Mythos, Muse will be on display from 11 December 2022 – 16 April 2023 at NGV International, St Kilda Road, Melbourne. Tickets are available here.

Image credit: Supplied

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