(Scroll down to see image gallery)
Step into an exclusive journey through the captivating realm of fashion at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, as we proudly present the awe-inspiring exhibition of Guo Pei’s exquisite creations, available only in Aotearoa New Zealand. Renowned globally, Chinese designer Guo Pei invites you to immerse yourself in a world of extravagance and artistry, where fashion transcends into wearable masterpieces.
Indulge your senses in over 60 meticulously crafted garments, each a testament to Guo Pei’s unparalleled vision and craftsmanship. From ethereal gowns adorned with intricate embroidery to sleek, form-fitting ensembles, every piece tells a story of opulence and elegance. Transporting you from the runway to the gallery, Guo Pei’s designs captivate with their romantic allure and mythical motifs, drawing inspiration from cultures worldwide.
Marvel at iconic pieces such as the legendary Yellow Queen gown, famously worn by Rihanna at the Met Gala, alongside never-before-seen creations, making their debut in our gallery. From 2005 to 2020, Guo Pei’s boundary-pushing designs have graced royalty, celebrities, and now, our esteemed visitors in Auckland.
Embark on a visual odyssey through Guo Pei’s imagination, where nature, mythology, and cultural traditions intertwine to create a tapestry of dreams and fantasies. From cosmic landscapes to enchanted gardens, each garment invites you to explore the depths of creativity and innovation.
Presented in partnership with the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco and supported by esteemed sponsors including Singapore Airlines, Rolls-Royce, and Cordis Hotels, this exhibition is a celebration of artistic excellence and cultural exchange. Join us as we delve into the extraordinary world of Guo Pei: where fashion meets art, and fantasy becomes reality.
Don’t miss your chance to experience Guo Pei: Fashion, Art, Fantasy 郭培 ：时装之幻梦, a highlight of Auckland Arts Festival 2024. Book your tickets now and embark on a journey of wonder and inspiration.
Who Is Guo Pei?
Guo Pei is a visionary Chinese fashion designer known for her extravagant and meticulously crafted garments that blend traditional Chinese craftsmanship with modern haute couture sensibilities. Here are some key points about Guo Pei and her work:
- Background and Early Career: Guo Pei was born in Beijing, China, in 1967. She graduated from the Beijing Second Light Industry School (now the Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology) in 1986 and began her career as a designer shortly after.
- Rise to Prominence: Guo Pei gained international recognition in 2010 when one of her designs was worn by Chinese actress Fan Bingbing at the Cannes Film Festival. However, it was her creation of Rihanna’s stunning yellow gown for the 2015 Met Gala that catapulted her to global fame.
- Signature Style: Guo Pei’s designs are characterized by their opulence, intricate detailing, and fusion of Eastern and Western aesthetics. She often incorporates traditional Chinese elements such as elaborate embroidery, luxurious fabrics, and symbolism into her couture creations.
- Time and Craftsmanship: Each of Guo Pei’s garments is a labor of love, often taking thousands of hours to complete. Her atelier in Beijing employs skilled artisans who meticulously handcraft every aspect of her designs, from the embroidery to the construction.
- Inspiration: Guo Pei draws inspiration from a wide range of sources, including Chinese history, mythology, nature, and her own imagination. Her designs often tell stories and evoke a sense of fantasy and wonder.
- Global Recognition: In addition to dressing celebrities like Rihanna and Fan Bingbing, Guo Pei’s work has been exhibited in museums and galleries around the world, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.
- Impact on Fashion: Guo Pei’s influence extends beyond the world of haute couture. Her bold and innovative approach to design has inspired a new generation of fashion designers and enthusiasts, redefining the boundaries of luxury fashion.
