ESSEN: Karl Lagerfeld, Parallel Contrasts

The Museum Folkwang has unveiled the first major exhibition dedicated to Germany’s internationally renowned designer, Karl Lagerfeld. Made up of 14 rooms and 15,000 square feet, the exhibition showcases everything from photographs and illustrations to design objects, films and vintage posters. Enter through to find the designer’s mock work environment fitted out with a desk set for writing, sketching and reading, alongside art supplies and books. Naturally, fashion (specifically Chanel) is largely centered upon; past runway shows are projected on the walls, while scaled catwalks are put in place. Chanel catalogs are displayed amidst garments and their respective sketches. Even Lagerfeld’s advertising works for clients such as Dom Perignon, Volkswagen and Audi are on view. The exhibition is complemented by a pop-up stocked with rare books found in Lagerfeld’s Paris bookshop, 7L. This is one of three exhibitions dedicated to Karl Lagerfeld this year, and a definite must-see. –Sarah Ryan Hecht