Multidisciplinary artist Daniel Lismore will be the next featured designer in the V&A’s Fashion in Motion series. Held in the V&A’s Raphael Court on the 5 August, the four free fashion presentations will showcase highlights from Lismore’s recent exhibition Be Yourself, Everybody Else is Taken, alongside his new ‘Jubilee’ look on view for the first time.
Labelled by Vogue as ‘England’s Most Eccentric Dresser’, Daniel’s wearable artworks are elaborate, extravagant, three-dimensional monuments: a psychedelic mash up of haute couture, charity-shop finds, vintage fabrics, found objects and religious paraphernalia. Sustainability sits at the heart of Daniel’s design philosophy, and with each ensemble he practices creative re-use and upcycling.
12 life-size ensembles – standing at 6’4” – will be showcased, examining social, historical and cultural themes central to Lismore’s work and life as a ‘living sculpture’.
Daniel Lismore said: “I am delighted that my sculptural looks will be showcased at the V&A. The pieces are a product of 20 years of collecting, collaboration and travel – each individual accessory, textile and adornment has a unique and personal story. I hope that visitors will be inspired and empowered by my life as a living sculpture to express themselves however they choose.”
Oriole Cullen, V&A Senior Curator Exhibitions said: “Daniel Lismore’s spectacular sculptures embody his unique lived experience, we are excited to present his dramatic and uncompromising vision of beauty and authenticity as part of the V&A’s Fashion in Motion series.”
A prominent fixture on the London Fashion and Art circuits, Daniel was Creative Director of luxury label Sorapol where he dressed Nicki Minaj, Mariah Carey, Naomi Campbell, and Boy George amongst others. Daniel has designed for English National Opera and has exhibited at the Venice Biennale, Miami Art Basal and Reykjavik Arts Festival in 2018.