Alessandro Michele, the creative director of Valentino, brings his unique vision of beauty and the world to Los Angeles with the launch of Specula Mundi, a captivating book of photographs by Mark Bothwick. This collection showcases Michele's couture designs, presented in a cinematic and immersive way using a Kaiserpanorama, a 19th-century innovation that allows viewers to experience the collection through a circular, panoramic view. The book's opening quote, attributed to Valentino himself, emphasizes the boundless nature of beauty, a theme that resonates throughout the collection and the brand's history.
In an interview, Michele discusses his collaboration with Bothwick, describing the photographer as a poet who captures the essence of couture through his unique lens. The models' interaction with the couture pieces in the photographs is described as extraordinary, with Michele noting the surreal and transformative nature of Bothwick's work. The Kaiserpanorama setup for the book launch in Los Angeles further enhances the cinematic and immersive experience, allowing guests to explore the collection in a way that reflects Michele's deep connection to Hollywood and cinema.
Michele's passion for cinema is evident in his childhood memories of watching old Hollywood movies with his mother, who worked in the film industry. This influence is evident in the collection's inspiration, which draws from the glamour and dream-like quality of Hollywood's golden age. The designer's own history with Hollywood and celebrities, including his work with Anne Hathaway and Dakota Johnson, is a key part of Valentino's tradition of collaborating with the stars. The brand's association with Hollywood and its iconic status in the fashion world are central to Michele's vision for the future of Valentino.
The interview also touches on Michele's appreciation for young artists, such as Sombr, and his desire to maintain real relationships with the people and art he collaborates with. Los Angeles, with its nostalgic and emotional allure, holds a special place in Michele's heart, and he views it as a place of discovery and inspiration. The book launch party, set in the Marciano Art Foundation, is a testament to the designer's appreciation for art and his desire to create a natural and easy conversation between his work and the art of others.
In conclusion, Alessandro Michele's Specula Mundi collection and book launch in Los Angeles showcase his unique vision of beauty, cinema, and the world. His collaboration with Mark Bothwick and the immersive presentation of the couture collection highlight Michele's creative genius and his ability to blend art, fashion, and Hollywood in a captivating and meaningful way.
