Vivienne Westwood: Rebel - Storyteller - Visionary
A defiant journey through British fashion, blending the raw energy of punk with the grandeur of historical couture.
Image credit
© Vivienne Westwood
Meet the artist
The Movement
FashionArtLovers Tip
Keep an eye out for the Shepherd print gold-framed scarf from the early 90s—it perfectly captures Westwood's knack for turning classical art into wearable provocation.
Exhibition Highlights - What you'll see
Vivienne Westwood did not just design clothes; she rewrote the rules of identity. This ambitious exhibition traces her evolution from the anarchic collaborations with Malcolm McLaren to the sophisticated historical subversions of her later career. By placing her radical silhouettes alongside the museum's own permanent collection, the show highlights how Westwood looked backward to move forward, transforming the lace and corsetry of the past into weapons of modern self-expression.
You're watching the intricate construction of a Boulle print dress and the structured chaos of an Anglomania mohair jacket. The galleries are filled with a sense of deliberate rebellion, where raw calico toiles reveal the hidden geometry of her craft. Between the heavy drapes and ornate frames of the museum, the vibrant patterns of Harlequin tights and the glint of an orb sceptre feel both out of time and perfectly at home.
Worth the trip
- Private treasures: See rare pieces from the private collection of Peter Smithson that are seldom accessible to the public.
- Technical secrets: Examine the making of Westwood's masterpieces through digitally deconstructed garments and original calico toiles.
- Historical dialogue: Experience a unique curation where iconic fashion ensembles are paired directly with historic objects from the museum's archives.
How to experience it
Take your time with the Voyage to Cythera collection, looking for the delicate balance between soft fabrics and bold, political statements. The Bowes Museum is a grand French-style château in the heart of the Durham countryside; after the show, walk through the formal gardens to let the contrast between the traditional architecture and Westwood's avant-garde vision settle in your mind.
Because you are an artlover,
Join our community of art enthusiasts and discover exhibitions, artists, and masterpieces tailored to your tastes. Get personalized recommendations and never miss a must-see show again.
Join us