The Costume Designer: Edith Head and Hollywood at Bendigo Art Gallery, September 29 to January 21, 2018 is an exhibition not to be missed. The glamour of Hollywood comes to life with this exclusive showcasing of the multi-award winning Hollywood costume designer, Edith Head.
Edith Head costume display Bendigo Art Gallery Photograph: GRACIE
Much is owed to her inimitable talent and skill in designing costumes to mask the stars’ flaws and accentuate their assets, as well as being in keeping with the characters they portrayed. During a career that spanned 50 years, Edith Head received eight Academy Awards and was nominated for 35.
PHOTO: Arlene Dahl in the 1953 film Here Comes the Girls. (Supplied: Paramount Pictures) Exhibition photograph: GRACIE
The Costume Designer showcases 70 costumes designed from 1930 to 1960 as well as several stunning illustrations and photos giving the costumes visual context.
Wedding dress worn by Barbara Stanwyck in ‘Sorry Wrong Number’ Paramount Pictures 1948 Photograph: GRACIE
Audrey Hepburn & Fred Astair publicity publicity still for ‘Funny Face’ © Paramount Pictures Photograph: GRACIE
Grace Sprague illustrator. White evening dress, red & white coat for fashion model in ‘Lucy Gallant’ Paramount Pictures 1955 Photograph: GRACIE
Clips from several films are a featured and include The Ten Commandments, Samson and Delilah, The Emperor Waltz, Sunset Boulevard, Vertigo, The Heiress and lots more.
Hedy Lamarr in Cecil B. DeMille’s Masterpiece “Samson and Delilah” – 1949 Paramount Pictures. © Paramount Pictures. Still photograph taken from film clip : GRACIE
Edith Head was equally particular about her own image. Her personal colour palette never varied – black, white, biege, grey or brown. It was a no-fuss look accentuated by dark glasses and a distinctive short cropped hair style.
Edith Head black & white portrait Photograph: GRACIE
It’s a great opportunity to gain insight into the costume world of this stellar period of Hollywood film and the art and skills employed by it’s most significant costume designer. At the same time, you’ll be fascinated by the stunning outfits and references that come together to make this a truly memorable gallery visit.
It’s a ‘must do’, so go if you can!
Before you go –
- Travel with V/Line and get 20% off full adult entry – online offer only. Vline.com.au for details
- The Art Gallery is the 2nd stop from the train station on the Bendigo Bus Network – approx. 5 min journey
- Tickets and packages bendigoartgallery.com.au
“You can have anything in life if you dress for it.” Edith Head