Cocoon Gown, Gelareh Alam with Sophia Constance (Lyraphic), molded leather, woven leather, silk, crystals and beads, 2017; Smithsonian American Art Museum, photo by Libby Weiler
In addition to the large-scale artworks currently being installed at No Spectators: The Art of Burning Man, opening at the Renwick Gallery of Art on March 30, the exhibition features hand-made jewelry and clothing such as Iranian-born designer, Gelareh Alam's "warrior chic," Cocoon Gown, created with Sophia Constance (Lyraphic) and Nagana Brass Gown with custom metal work by Jungle Tribe. At Burning Man, traditional styles of dress are eschewed in favor of clothing inspired by sources as varied as burlesque, Carnival, Day of the Dead, steampunk, and rave culture. "The act of transformation," Alam has said, "is an act of empowerment."
(left) Nagana Brass Gown, Gelareh Alam, hand-cut leather and custom metal work by Jungle Tribe, 2014; (Headpiece) The Crown of Nagini, Caley Johnson (“Miss G”), foam, studs, chain, and paint, 2018. (right) Cocoon Gown, Gelareh Alam and Sophia Constance (Lyraphic) molded leather, woven leather, silk, crystals and beads, 2017. Smithsonian American Art Museum, photo by Libby Weiler.
The exhibition opens March 30. Learn more about the artists and artworks featured in: No Spectators: The Art of Burning Man.
Related blog posts: Sneak Peek: Burning Man Unfolds at the Renwick, Here Be Dragons, Feel the Burn: the Art of Burning Man Comes to the Renwick in March
