TO CELEBRATE 160 years of Louis Vuitton, the French fashion house has opened Louis Vuitton X, an exhibition exploring the brand’s history with artistic collaborations. Inspired by over 180 pieces from the Vuitton archives, the items create a physical timeline of the brand’s creative heritage.
Louis Vuitton X combines art and fashion in a unique exhibition space
Louis Vuitton’s pioneering spirit is presented with a collection of early twentieth century specialized trunks and art deco window displays made by Gaston-Louis, Vuitton’s grandson, to special order pieces such as tennis rackets to a monogrammed picnic trunk made in 1926 for an Egyptian prince. The exhibition further brings us into the modern day with pieces that combine tradition and innovation, the classic LV monogram is reworked and redefined through collaborations with top artists and designers such as Stephen Sprouse, Takashi Murakami, Damien Hirst and Jeff Koons, along with original commisions by artists and architects Yayoi Kusama, Richard Prince and Zaha Hadid.
The Art on Silk room displays unique prints on classic Louis Vuitton silk scarfs
Offering a rich and immersive experience to guests, the exhibition features a multi-screen installation called the Magic Malle. Combining art and technology, the screens show the remarkable story of Louis Vuitton’s atelier origins to their present day collections.
The Magic Malle room offers guests an immersive experience
The exhibition concludes with a showcase of the label’s latest artistic collaboration. Named after the street where Louis Vuitton opened his first store in 1854, the Capucines bags are given a twist with a limited-edition line called Artycapucines. Each customized bag features original designs from contemporary artists Sam Falls, Urs Fischer, Nicholas Hlobo, Alex Israel, Tshabalala Self and Jonas Words. The Artycapucines further maintain Louis Vuitton’s artistic commitment to creative innovation and originality.
The Artycapucines are the house’s latest collaboration with contemporary artists
by Mirabella Shahidullah
Louis Vuitton X is located at 468 N Rodeo Drive and is open until September 15