EBBA designed a major show on contemporary fashion photography at Artistree in Hong Kong, which is due to travel to up to 10 different locations in Asia.
The design of the exhibition took the notion of fashion being in continual flux and the view that fashion photography is about establishing a narrative that can be seen as a reflection of the world. This is manifested in the spatial journey, taking cues from the genres to provide different ways to view and experience the photography. The sculpted forms and arrangement of walls help to guide people through the space without a strictly defined route, intended to promote a sense of exploration and discovery. Framing views through to adjacent rooms help to blur the lines between the groups, setting up connections that both tie and react against the varying styles and inter-generational photographs in the show.
Architecturally the project tries to explore the use of surfaces and cavernous forms to distill a particular feel that can heighten the experience of viewing the photography. The walls are formed by steam-bent timber, treated in a thick ‘orange peel’ paint texture that adds to the appearance of a sculpted interior; a technique developed through centuries in China. EBBA worked closely with local contractors to develop a unique process for finishing the walls, involving in-depth testing to achieve the final textured surface.
Curated by Nathalie Herschdorfer, Beyond Fashion featured works by today’s most celebrated fashion photographers, presented across four themes: Fantasy, Allure, Realism and Surrealism. The collection brought together both iconic and lesser-known works by the most recognised names in the industry and those of the new generation, including Nick Knight, Paolo Roversi, Peter Lindbergh, Miles Aldridge, Ellen von Unwerth and Juergen Teller. The creators and the photography on show presented ‘imagery that goes far beyond fashion to reflect on the spirit, dreams, and realities of society’ says the curator Nathalie Herschdorfer.
