In recent years the V&A’s Fashion in Motion series of events has turned over the museum to some of London’s most exciting new designers; Grace Wales Bonner, Meadham Kirchhoff and Molly Goddard have all staged incredible presentations of their work inside the South Ken institution.
The latest gifted young designer they’ve bestowed the honour upon? John Alexander Skelton. The LCF and CSM grad made his name with intricately wrought and intellectually considered designs. His work explores his native north and its politics, folklore and traditional crafts. John reuses and recycles, turning old fabrics into his garments through dying, printing, painting and patching. Previous collections have investigated everything from the cotton trade between India and Lancashire, to medieval pagan ritual and deconstructions of traditional 19th century staples like the frock coat. For Fashion in Motion John will restage these collections alongside new work inspired by The Green Man, a mythical figure who represents rebirth and spring.
“In my journey as a designer, the opportunity to show at the V&A is of utmost significance,” John said in a statement. “The institution, and in particular, The Raphael Gallery, upholds the importance of craft, rarity and theatricality. These qualities are at the heart of my work.”
The show will take place on Friday 23 March, free tickets are available from Monday 12 March.