The new RHS exhibit "Threads of Imagination" is really shaping up thanks to our four guest artists – Judie Anderson, Sandra Leonard, Maggie O'Reilly and Nicole Burns. All have been over to the historic Graver-Driscoll House (RHS HQ) this week to arrange their space. Each artist brings a unique perspective to the theme of "the intersection of fashion and art" and it all ties together with the legacy of Alla Bryan Ripley Bannister (1867-1948), who lived in Beverly for over 30 years during her career as a nationally recognized fashion designer.
For example, consider the work of Sandra Leonard. Sandra creates "sculptural clothing" to transform the human form into sculpture. Her amazing costumes are used for performance art and other projects.
Interestingly, before Alla Ripley became a fashion designer, she briefly experimented with the stage. There is one historic "show biz" picture of her with her first husband Harry Ripley in which her costume is evocative of today's performance art costumes. There is a definite possibility she designed the costume herself.
That picture and a picture of Sandra's costumes which will be on display at RHS are included here.
During the coming weeks we will also look at the other artists and their connections to Alla Ripley.
The exhibit will open for the Beverly Art Walk next Saturday, September 21, and run until January 2020 so there will be plenty of opportunities to get over to RHS to take this in.
Mark your calendars for Friday, October 11, 7 to 9 p.m., when we will have the official opening reception for the exhibit and an opportunity for you to meet the artists in person.
RHS is located at 10621 S. Seeley Avenue in Chicago.