Carla Zampatti — one of Australian fashion’s most coveted names, will be honoured with a retrospective exhibition at the Powerhouse. Although the development of the retrospective has been in the works with the designer’s involvement since 2019, Powerhouse has continued to work closely with the Zampatti family and the fashion house since her unfortunate passing last year. The exhibition aims to present the designer’s collection and life’s works to the public.
Carla Zampatti retrospective exhibition
The exhibition spans over five decades and will shed light on the Italian-born designer’s illustrious career starting from the establishment of her business in 1965 to her most recent work.
Themes of private life, professional life and public life will be carefully curated and explored, centered around Zampatti’s signature designs.
“It is an incredible honour for Mum’s design legacy to be showcased in a major exhibition at the Powerhouse. Mum loved the magic of fashion, the big runway shows as well as hearing her customers’ personal stories and how her designs often played a small part in moments of significance in the lives of many Australian women,” said Carla Zampatti CEO Alexander Schuman.
The exhibition includes exclusive interviews with the designer herself along with clients, close friends and family. It is also primed to showcase 100 garments including rare pieces from the 1960s and 70s.
The majority of these will have come straight from Zampatti’s personal archives with contributions from the National Gallery of Victoria and other private collections. MAAS is also taking submissions from the public and will be displaying up to 40 of these.
“Carla Zampatti’s indelible legacy transcends her immense contribution to Australian fashion and trailblazing leadership for women in business. Her timeless pieces, often passed down from generation to generation, have featured in special events of significance to so many Australian women.” Powerhouse Chief Executive Lisa Havilah added.
Expect a lecture by UTS Italian Studies lecturer Dr Emma Barlow, music by DJ Bocconcini and a screening of Sydney Dance Company’s film, Years as part of the event on March 16, 2023. Powerhouse will also celebrate female-led businesses and leaders with a day of talks exploring industry support for the next generation of fashion leaders on March 8, 2023.
The Carla Zampatti retrospective exhibition will be on from November 24, 2022 until March 31, 2023. Tickets won’t be required and the exhibition is free for all. Read more here.