Dolce & Gabbana unveils a grand exhibition in Milan

Dolce & Gabbana has unveiled its inaugural exhibition dedicated to the essence of its brand. Entitled “Dal cuore alle mani: Dolce & Gabbana” (From Heart to Hands), this extraordinary showcase invites visitors on an enchanting journey into the realm of Italian luxury. With over 220 meticulously curated haute couture pieces, the exhibition offers a mesmerizing exploration of the brand’s creative process and unparalleled craftsmanship. Hosted from April 7 to July 31, in collaboration with the city of Milan and the IMG Group, this grand event transforms the illustrious Palazzo Reale, the historic royal palace nestled in the heart of Milan near the iconic Duomo, into a captivating haven of fashion and artistry.

“This is a unique exhibition,” remarked curator and French historian Florence Müller. “Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana are the only couturiers to showcase haute couture at this level by creating and presenting all their collections within the Peninsula, unlike other Italian designers who showcase their couture creations in Paris,” she emphasised.

“In their work, they center everything around Italy. From the rich local artisanal traditions spanning various regions, which serve as inspiration and seamlessly integrate into their creations, to the realms of art, architecture, cinema, opera, and historical landmarks. That’s why we have placed their creations within an environment and ambiance reminiscent of all these references,” she elaborated.

Baroque grandeur and lavish opulence epitomise the work of the designers. Since the brand’s establishment in Milan in 1985, Dolce & Gabbana is granting the public an unprecedented glimpse into their creative process for the first time, allowing admirers to intimately observe their meticulous attention to detail in ornamentation and finishing, as well as to experience the sophistication and fervour exuded by each garment.

This immersive journey behind the curtains of the house includes an exclusive visit to one of its alta moda and alta sartoria workshops, recreated for the occasion, where artisans and couturiers meticulously sew, cut, and embroider, bringing their visions to life.
 

The exhibition unfolds across ten curated rooms, each delineated by opulent black drapes, offering an immersive journey into specific themes, wellsprings of inspiration, or distinct craftsmanship, all portrayed through the lens of Dolce & Gabbana’s creations. Within these chambers, guests encounter not only the brand’s iconic pieces and accessories but also a bespoke selection of background melodies, tailored to enhance the ambiance. Yet, it is the sumptuous settings, crafted by Italy’s finest artisans, that truly steal the spotlight.

For instance, the artistry of mosaic takes center stage under the skilled hands of Venetian maestro Orsoni. Here, a golden casket, fashioned from hundreds of shimmering tesserae, serve as the perfect pedestal for mosaic-clad gowns, adorned with precious stones, sequins, and micro-beads.

Similarly, the storied tradition of glassmaking receives its due reverence within a room adorned by the master craftsmen of Murano. As guests step into this realm, they are greeted by grandiose chandeliers and mirrors, reflecting dresses bedecked in glistening crystals curated by the visionary duo. The room dedicated to Sicilian heritage pays homage to the island’s rich cultural tapestry, with its walls adorned in hand-painted ceramic tiles crafted by the esteemed artisans of Fratelli Bevilacqua from Campofranco, nestled near Caltanissetta.

Other chambers recreate exceptionally distinct atmospheres, exemplified by the grand salon draped in resplendent red, echoing the illustrious Milanese opera house La Scala. Here, amidst the opulent setting, haute couture creations intermingle with patrons. Before them, an exquisite collection of evening dresses pays homage to bel canto, featuring silk and satin ensembles adorned with intricate embroidery and featuring cascading trains.

Equally notable is the meticulously crafted space reminiscent of the Palazzo Gangi in Palermo and the legendary ball scene immortalized by Luchino Visconti in his cinematic masterpiece, The Leopard. This evocative setting serves as yet another wellspring of inspiration for a haute couture collection by Dolce & Gabbana, drawing guests into a realm of timeless elegance and sophistication.

Furthermore, the exhibition seamlessly integrates modern technology, evident in a chamber dedicated to Renaissance architecture and painting. Here, the static frescoes seemingly spring to life through enchantmentl. At the heart of this captivating space, exquisite garments replicate, employing weaving and tapestry techniques, some of the illustrious masterpieces of Quattrocento paintings, effortlessly bridging the realms of art and fashion.

Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana have additionally endeavored to engage contemporary artists, among them Felice Limosani, Obvious Art, Alberto Maria Colombo, Quayola, Vittorio Bonapace, and Catelloo. Through captivating videos strategically placed at the entrance of the exhibition, these artists offer their unique interpretations of the brand’s essence, seamlessly blending past inspirations with modern creativity. This innovative approach serves to forge a meaningful connection between tradition and contemporary fashion, underscoring the brand’s enduring relevance in today’s ever-evolving landscape. Moreover, plans are underway to showcase the exhibition in various international metropolises.