Azzedine Alaïa and Africa

Azzedine Alaïa and Africa explores the profound connection the couturier maintained throughout his life with the African continent. Inspired by memories of his native Tunisia, his work reinterprets mashrabiyas, the radiant whites of North Africa, deep blacks, Saharan earth tones, and African craftsmanship. From his iconic bandage dresses inspired by ancient Egypt to designs adorned with shells and cowries, Alaïa transformed these influences into timeless, modern silhouettes. The exhibition is enhanced by paintings by Kris Ruhs, which engage in dialogue with Alaïa’s creations, and by a series of photographs by Peter Beard, documenting a journey the photographer and designer shared in Maasai country in 1996.

" Azzedine Alaïa et l'Afrique" ph. Stéphane Aït Ouarab