The world of art and fashion is about to collide in a captivating way at the upcoming event, "Fashion is Art," hosted by Forre Fine Art in Aspen. This unique speaker series, curated by Gabrielle Greeves, promises to unveil the untold stories of women who have left an indelible mark on the intersection of these two creative realms.
Unveiling the Creative Journey
The event, scheduled for July 28th, will feature a diverse panel of five local photographers, stylists, and painters, each with their own captivating personal histories and creative processes to share. From the iconic Art Deco period to the transformative decades of the 1960s and 1970s, and right up to the present day, these women will guide us through a rich tapestry of fashion and art.
A Historical Perspective
One of the highlights will undoubtedly be the talk by Marisa de Lempicka, an Aspen resident and great-granddaughter of the legendary artist Tamara de Lempicka. Tamara's work, often described as strikingly modern even today, embodies the spirit of the "new woman" - independent, strong, and forging her own path. It's fascinating to consider how her impact from the 1920s and 1930s continues to resonate and inspire contemporary fashion designers and even high-end watchmakers like Cabriolet De Lempicka.
Breaking Barriers
Another trailblazer on the panel is Sandy Kaplan, a Roaring Fork Valley local since 1996. Sandy's journey is a testament to breaking barriers. As the first woman allowed to work as a set photographer in late 1960s Hollywood, she navigated a male-dominated industry with grace and talent. Her work has graced the pages of French Vogue and she has collaborated with iconic fashion houses like Chanel, Dior, and YSL. Sandy's mission, she says, has always been and continues to be, "creating an image."
Fashion, Family, and Fine Art
Shelly Safir Marolt, raised in a fashion-forward New York family, brings a unique perspective to the panel. After building a career with notable brands like Ralph Lauren, Chanel, and Gucci, she moved to Aspen in 1989 and launched the town's first visual merchandising firm. Today, she channels her fashion background into painting couture-inspired narrative scenes of her children, a beautiful blend of fashion and family.
Preserving Tradition
Representing the Kiton Fashion House, Mindi Safchik, an Aspen local and the General Manager of this revered family-owned Italian fashion house, will share insights into the brand's commitment to tradition. Established in 1968 by Ciro Paone, Kiton continues the proud tradition of handmaking all its clothing, a rare practice in today's fashion industry.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Aspen artist Shelly Hamill, known for her mosaic dress sculptures, will also be part of this inspiring lineup. Shelly, inspired by her artist grandmother, has established The Keller Prize, an inclusive call for art that encourages submissions from anyone, judged by an artist from Aspen. This initiative reflects Shelly's belief in the power of art to unite and inspire, regardless of background or experience.
This event promises to be a thought-provoking and inspiring evening, offering a unique glimpse into the creative minds of these remarkable women. It's a celebration of their contributions to the worlds of art and fashion, and a testament to the power of female voices and creativity. Personally, I think it's an event that will leave a lasting impression and inspire many to explore the rich connections between these two vibrant industries.
