Our friend, Jessica Witte Coordinator of Marketing and Education for the NIU Art Museum, gave us a heads up on this upcoming exhibit at the museum that sounds just divine for any vintage clothing lover. If you're in the area or plan to be traveling to Illinois be sure to check it out! Some Enchanted Evening: 100 Years of Evening Gowns (1900-1999) August 28 * October 13, 2007 Northern Illinois University Art Museum Nearly thirty gowns from the Collection of Barbara Cole Peters are presented with written commentary examining cultural developments of the twentieth century decade by decade. The exhibition features 20th century dance music and a brief journey though the dances of the 20th Century. Additional vignettes display the influences of psychedelic design, Orientalism, and the Ballets Russes. Richly adorned with embroidery, appliqué, sequins, and intricate beading, these garments speak to the artistry of fashion design. From anonymous dressmakers to the House of Worth, Norman Newell, Oscar de la Renta, and other famous designers, the included evening wear serves as an ornate and vibrant timeline reflecting the 20th century*s changing notions of beauty, elegance, romance and fantasy. Curated by Barbara Cole Peters. NIU Art Museum Altgeld Hall, First Floor, West End Northern Illinois University, DeKalb Phone: 815.753.1936 T - F 10 - 5, Sa 12 - 4 and by appointment for group tours September - Mid May Balancing the challenges of contemporary art with the riches of traditional visual art for a comprehensive examination of culture. Rotating exhibitions from the university*s collections, contemporary art from regional and national artists, and national traveling exhibitions. Get-On-The-Bus art excursion program. Exhibitions and lectures are free and open to the public. www.vpa.niu.edu/museum
Fall Opening Reception: August 30, 2007, 4:30-7p August 28 - October 13, 2007, Rotunda Gallery *Some Enchanted Evening: 100 Years of Evening Gowns (1900-1999)* An aesthetic, historical, and socio-cultural look at exquisite designer gowns from the Barbara Cole Peters Collection. Collector's talk in the Gallery: August 30, 2007, 5:15 & 6:00pm
