Daphne's Wardrobe

A journey in nature. Among large old trees and serene walking paths at Descanso Gardens, there is a mystical exhibit called Daphne's Wardrobe.

Having had no idea what to expect, I imagined that I was going to step into someone's closet, learn about her life, and the interesting clothes that she wore. Well, I imagined wrong.

The exhibit combines works of female artists, to show human connection to nature through fashion, art, and photography. Because let's face it, in our virtual world, we have lost a great deal of our humanity, and have moved away from our roots like a tree that's been cut off from its roots.

Here, we are reminded that it's not natural for us to connect to manmade material things, and that true happiness lies in nature as we shed our exterior, and transform into something magical.

Nature-inspired dress that blends into the photograph, and can easily be missed.

Near the photographs, there are displays from the picture such as the above hat.

The highlight of the show were pictures  of the supermodel, Veruschka aka Vera Lehndorff. She was a beauty that didn't fit in at school, and later in the Parisian fashion world because she was considered too tall, gawky, and her features lacked softness. Fortunately, she couldn't care less, and pushed forward with her uniqueness. The above photo is a collaboration between Veruschka, and the photographer Holger Trülzsch. For that shot, she had to sit still for hours in the forest to have her body painted. You can find more here about the supermodel, Veruschka, and the photographer, Holger Trülzsch.

Veruschka had a turbulent past. Her wealthy father was killed by the Nazis, and she, her sisters, and mom were placed in concentration camp, and eventually became homeless. She had a hard time dealing with all that had happened, spent a lot of time in nature, and wanted to become one with the trees, and disappear.

As I left the exhibit, and the gardens, I couldn't help feeling grateful for my friend who had made a point of visiting this showcase. Without her recommendation, I would have missed out on this interesting thought-provoking exhibit. All in all, it was a great day spent in a space where nature overcomes technology.

Art Exhibit and a Fashion Show

About a month ago I attended an art exhibit and a fashion show at the Pacific design Center. I wasn’t sure what to wear before leaving my apartment. I mean this is L.A and here people show up in jeans at the Opera. But I’m glad I decided to be more conservative and wear a pair of nice slacks and a pretty royal blue and white blouse. 

The event was sponsored by Alliance Francaise. The reception was titled “Etre & Paraitre,” photos exhibited by Emmanuelle Choussy.

The Lady in red is Emmanuelle. This was her first exhibit in the U.S.

  

Her favorite subject is people be it in a natural environment, nude or in a designer gown.

Her photographs reveal much about her subjects. I have to say that the above photo was one of my favorites.

  

The evening was classy and delightful. The crowd was friendly and dressed chic. Chef Josette had her servers walk around with trays of yummy amuse bouche and petits fours.

He was one of the servers. A funny man who asked me to take his picture. When he found out that I speak French, he spoke to me at a lightening pace. My poor memory of hundreds of years ago living in Paris did not help me understand everything he was telling me. I really have got to start practicing!

 

The bartender served champagne. There was that whole scene of lights, camera and action going on. Photographers circled the room, taking photos of the attendees.

 

And around 9 p.m, the fashion show started.  

 

Although I didn’t get a chance to meet all of the designers, I did have the opportunity to speak with Eric Coly who has a boutique in Santa monica – Le Dessein. 

 

Here are some more photos: