“Portraits in Fashion” features dry point etchings and monotypes of famous fashion designers who have either changed the direction of fashion or who have transformed the way we live our lives as a result of the fashions they have designed.
When designers such as Coco Chanel and Elsa Schiaparelli eliminated the floor length gowns and corsets previously worn by women, they were freely able to move their bodies and to participate in sporting and outdoor activities.
Decades later, Yves St. Laurent pushed the envelope by designing pantsuits for women which were initially not allowed to be worn in high end establishments. His LE SMOKING, the now ubiquitous tuxedo for women, caused a sensation and women were turned away from restaurants despite wearing an elegant designer garment. It was unheard of to see women in anything but a dress or formal gown.
Designers have now become as rich and famous as the clients who purchase their clothing. They have become household names and their labels have become synonymous with luxury and wealth. To highlight what some of these designers are known for, several of the prints in this show are sewn onto fabric that is reminiscent of the type of garment they have designed. My work is a literal portrait of who they are, allowing the viewer to see close up the face they project to the world and what they have created.
About the Artist:
Leslie has been showing her work in the Southern California area for the last 10 years with a printmaking group called “the inkspots” as well as being a member of the Santa Barbara Printmakers and the Buenaventura Arts Association. Her work is also juried into many juried competitions through the year. Her work has won awards and is collected by people across the country. Most recently, her piece “The King of Fashion,” a portrait of Karl Lagerfeld, won 3rd place in the 33rd Annual Buenaventura Art Association’s Open Juried Competition that was held this year at the Ventura County Museum.
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