Costume Design 

Curator: This line and ink drawing, called "Costume Design," comes to us from the celebrated Art Deco artist, Erte. Editor: Oh, look at her! I see instant elegance... almost haughty, with that perfect hand gesture. A very '20s lady vibe, wouldn’t you agree? Curator: Precisely. Erte was renowned for his costume and fashion designs. There is an identifiable sense of glamour from that period, not just a flapper aesthetic but drawing on earlier historical symbols of courtly life as well. The ruffled collar, puffed sleeves... she is clearly meant for some imagined stage. Editor: She is indeed dramatic! I find it fascinating how a few simple lines can suggest so much texture – look at the skirt detail or the layered effect around her shoulders. Even those ribbons – the drawing lends the gown an imagined motion of luxury fabrics! Curator: The color scheme of blues and whites are a classic Erte color story. Consider the recurring power of this palette to evoke associations, from classical depictions of deities in blue robes, such as the Virgin Mary or divine Kings, whose associations include purity and nobility. Editor: Hmm... purity feels off somehow given the knowing gaze that's drawn, but I see the appeal to royalty. And tell me – those tiny green slippers are precious, what statement might Erte have intended there? I imagine such a tiny jewel at the bottom meant to catch your eye... Curator: Perhaps that tiny flash of verdant footwear indicates a hint of mischief or the possibility of taking flight… I feel that Erté invites the audience into the dream of the stage and performance. These costumes could symbolize transformation and theatrical self-discovery. Editor: Yes, I’d say it makes it far from passive design. Thinking about what all went into a single costume piece - it reminds me how one seemingly beautiful, frivolous thing can tell us a grand story about where our cultures have been and can hint at where we may be heading.