Witness Susan Sontag’s definition of Camp at the MET
Unnatural, aesthetic, outrageous and a little bizarre, is what you can witness at the Met’s Costume Institute. An exhibition titled “Camp: Notes on Fashion”, currently ongoing, features the rising trend of intentional exaggeration and theatrical fashion. Inspired by Susan Sontag’s iconic 1964 Essay, as she defines camp as, ‘Love of the unnatural: of artifice and exaggeration’, camp, can however not be completely defined. Although, it is usually associated with the LGBT Culture and the colour ‘Pink’.
While a lot of us got excited but also confused on this year’s Met Gala theme, with the exaggerated outfits such as Cardi B’s Oyster Dress and Björk's infamous swan gown, a visit at the Met, gives a much better understanding of the theme.
The exhibition which began with a preview of the study and origin of camp, possesses the colour pink as featured in its exhibition spaces.
The exhibition’s pièce de rèsistance section, features its aesthetic sense in fashion, by showcasing 140 garments, dating from the 1980s to the present. Featuring designers include: Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel Erdem, Vivienne Westwood, Jeremy Scott and Maison Margiela.
Art pieces such as paintings, drawings and sculptures from the Met’s 17th Century to the present day collection, with a sense of camp are also on display.
One of the rooms, showcases an Italian bronze statue of a boy, a part of a collection belonging to King Louis XIV of France.
“Camp: Notes on Fashion”, which is more than an undefinable sense of beauty is on show as from 9th May through 8th September 2019.