Hussein Chalayan: 1994-2010

Istanbul Modern was pleased to present the most comprehensive exhibition in Turkey of works by Hüseyin Çağlayan, one of the leading names of contemporary art and fashion.

Presenting fashion as an area for exploration, where concepts find an expression, Hüseyin Çağlayan challenges the preconceived notions about the meaning of clothing. Inspired by ideas drawn from disciplines not readily associated with fashion, and motivated by the political, social and economic realities of today, he creates designs that explore his conceptual ideas with a philosophical approach. His garments are imbued with the thought processes behind them while his acclaimed runway shows function as performance pieces. Besides fashion collections, he makes installations, directs short films and designs costumes for stage.

Previously presented at the Design Museum, London and the Museum of Contemporary Art, Tokyo, this touring exhibition curated by Donna Loveday brought together fashion collections, installations and films produced by Hüseyin Çağlayan between the years 1994 and 2010. Inspired by architecture, philosophy, science, history, anthropology, biology and technology, the selected works reflected Çağlayan’s views on a range of themes including genetics, technological progress, displacement, migration and cultural identity.

Curator: Donna Loveday