A life-sized bear stands chained to the white quilted wall that surrounds an S&M-inspired scene. A gathered pool of water on a sidewalk reflects an image of the Rue Cambon in France. A giant handbag lies on its side to reveal a makeup compact that plays video footage of a woman destructing a smaller version of her shoulder accessory. Drawing a connection between these three moments might seem lofty, but all are features of installations in the Chanel Mobile Art Pavillion, and all are inspired by the world’s most emblematic handbag: the quilted Chanel 2.55.
The exhibition, which resides at its third destination in Central Park, NYC is a collaboration between the design worlds of fashion, art, and architecture. Commissioned by Chanel creative director, Karl Lagerfeld, and designed by contemporary architect, Zaha Hadid, the white, pod-like mobile museum features 18 art installations from contemporary artists across the globe. Artists such as Loris Cecchini, Yoko Ono and David Levinthal were given creative freedom except in one area: the iconic chain-strap handbag once designed by Coco Chanel in 1955 must serve as inspiration for their work.
High profile guests such as Kate Bosworth and Agyness Deyn donned space-age styles at the opening in homage to the gallery’s futuristic design aesthetic. Bosworth, in a structural silver number, wore her hair in an appropriate slicked-back pony-tail for the occasion. Lagerfeld wore, well, what he always wears—black and white, and of course, his infamous shades. While fashionistas and art snobs adore the gallery, free admission encourages everyday New Yorkers to experience the exhibit.
The Chanel Mobile Art Pavillion remains at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park until November 9. After that, it jets off to its final three destinations: London, Moscow, and Paris. Although tickets are free for the public, they are sold out online. For those willing to take a road trip, tickets must be obtained on-site. For a sneak peek of the gallery, visit New York Magazine’s video tour on their fashion blog, The Cut.
