In celebration of the 2024 European Heritage Days (Journées Européennes du Patrimoine), Balenciaga unveils an original exhibition titled Les Subtilités d’un Dialogue (The Subtleties of a Dialogue). This unique showcase, located within Kering’s historic headquarters at Laennec, 40 rue de Sèvres, will be open to the public on September 21st and 22nd, 2024.
As Kering marks its ninth year participating in this esteemed event, the exhibition also coincides with the Pinault Collection’s presentation in the chapel, featuring works by six contemporary artists under the title In Praise of Space. This dual event not only highlights the importance of cultural heritage but also emphasizes the dialogue between past and present in the realm of art and fashion.
The Balenciaga exhibition offers a curated view of creations by both Cristóbal Balenciaga and his contemporary successor, Demna. Staged with an innovative scenography, the exhibition isolates intricate details of each piece, allowing visitors to engage closely with the hallmark aesthetics, craftsmanship, and iconic codes of the House. Each display reflects the technical excellence and creative richness that Balenciaga is renowned for, focusing on the harmony of shape, the balance of folds, and the purity of silhouettes.
The garments showcased draw from Balenciaga’s extensive archive, which spans from Cristóbal Balenciaga’s early masterpieces to the groundbreaking ready-to-wear and couture collections of today, designed by Demna. This selection serves as a testament to the House's enduring legacy and its ongoing influence on the fashion industry.
Les Subtilités d’un Dialogue is not merely an exhibition; it is an invitation to immerse oneself in the aesthetics of Balenciaga and to appreciate the profound impact the House continues to have on global fashion. As visitors explore the nuances of this dialogue between heritage and innovation, they are reminded of the transformative power of design and its ability to shape cultural narratives.
