Designer LisaGorman found a sparkling source of inspiration for her latest collection in the archives of Melbourne Museum, writes Yuzuha Oka
Geoscience and fashion have fused in an exciting collaboration between Lisa Gorman and Melbourne Museum.
Gorman’s Autumn 2016 collection, titled Geology, launched at the Melbourne Museum yesterday, features signature prints inspired by crystal clusters, gems, and satellite maps found in mid-century scientific posters. “I really loved all the hand-drawings and colour,” Gorman says of the posters, “So I started investigating where I could see the real gems.” She found them at Melbourne Museum, which boasts more than 60,000 crystals. “When I saw the geoscience archive I knew that was the place.”
The museum’s archive also stars in Gorman’s campaign shoot: “The place has a really nice balance between industrialism and preciousness,” Lisa Gorman explains.
Gorman’s Stack On Sweater, photographed for Lisa Gorman’s winter 2016 campaign, at the Melbourne Museum
“Nature (offers) the most fashionable colours you can find,” smiles geologist Dr. Dermot Henry, manager of Museum Victoria’s Natural Sciences.”So it’s no surprise that it crossed into arts and design.”
Dr. Henry provided Lisa Gorman with his ample knowledge of the beauties under ground. Her Stack on Sweater, which she wore to yesterday’s launch (pictured, above), for example, features a kaleidoscope print of gems and crystals.
Satellite shift, also from the Geology A/W collection (pictured above, left and main photo, top), is another unique statement piece featuring a bold pattern of red, aquamarine and coral. Crystal cluster pantsuit (pictured below) has a distinct, 1960s vibe. “Tunic dresses, cropped, slightly flared pant, some neat fitted knitwear…” Lisa Gorman says, “I quite like the 60s feel going on…”.
A Gorman pop-up will open in Melbourne Museum for a limited time from Tuesday 8 March and a free public runway show will be staged on Saturday, March 13 as part of the Virgin Australia Melbourne Fashion Festival (VAMFF) which will host free pre and post show activities and parties in the Royal Exhibition Buildings and Melbourne Museum precinct every day and night from March 7 to 13.
Yuzuha Oka, intern@voxfrock.com.au
