Tangible fashion exhibition in Kunstmuseum The Hague. October 11 2024 until November 3 2024
The work of Dutch-Curaçaoan designer Michelangelo Winklaar embodies unique, timeless garments for the elegant woman, always created with his muses in mind. Winklaar focuses on the individual, choosing pure materials, refined textures, subtle nuances and perfect shapes, with an eye for detail and whimsy. Winklaar uses crafts such as moulage, drapery and refined embroidery.
Inspired by his visually impaired mother, Michelangelo Winklaar designed a groundbreaking couture collection in 2021 that allowed visitors to touch couture ensembles in the museum. Although the collection was specially designed with visually impaired people in mind, in practice it appeals to a much wider audience. After all, who is not seduced by the unusual shapes, textures and fabrics that beg to be touched? With his inclusive approach to museum fashion, Winklaar breaks through the strict “do not touch” credo; touch is allowed, and this results in an enriching and unforgettable experience for many. His garments are specially designed so that visually impaired people can enjoy the shapes, fabrics and textures through touch. In doing so, he aims to make the fashion experience in museums more inclusive.
For the past two weeks, Winklaar's team worked on the couture piece shown here during the open-air exhibition Lange Voor Haute Couture. With the help of passers-by, it was knotted. The interior has a corset constructed from no less than six layers of tulle, consisting of 48 pattern pieces, reflecting the meticulous detail work and high craftsmanship characteristic of Winkler's style.