Wifredo Lam’s work expanded beyond cultural boundaries and established categories of art in the twentieth century, giving expression to his multicultural ancestry. Growing up in both Nigeria and England, Duro Olowu was raised in an environment that embraced international culture, art, fashion and music. From an early age, his enthusiasm for fashion was inspired by the unexpected mix of fabrics, textures and draping techniques of the clothing worn by the women that surrounded him. His original prints and innovative use of pattern, colour and shape reveal these influences and his ongoing fascination with the world.
Following the tour, guests are invited to explore for themselves The EY Exhibition: Wifredo Lam, which places Wifredo Lam at the centre of global modernism.
Biography
Duro Olowu launched his first women’s wear label in October 2004 with a collection for spring and summer. His designs are sold around the world, from his boutique in London’s Mayfair to stockists including Ikram in Chicago, Biffi in Milan and Net-a-porter worldwide. His high-waisted, Kimono-like signature “Duro dress” was voted “Dress of the Year” in 2005 by both British and American Vogue. Olowu also won the “Best New Designer of the Year” award from the British Fashion Council that same year. Olowu curated the recent Camden Arts Centre exhibition Making & Unmaking in 2016, a group show featuring the work of over 70 international artists. His work was featured in the Global Africa Project exhibition at the Museum of Art and Design New York in 2010. Pieces from his collections have also been acquired by the Rhode Island School of Art for their collection of costume and textiles.
This event has been provided by Tate Gallery on behalf of Tate Enterprises LTD