June 4th, 2012 
Photo Courtesy of HillwoodMuseum.org
Fashion; a world physically created through tangible materials like cotton, wool, fur, silk, leather, and… paper? On June 14, Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens along with His Excellency Jan Matthysen, Ambassador of Belgium, will host the opening celebration of Prêt-à-Papier: The Exquisite Art of Isabelle de Borchgrave. This unforgettable evening will include dinner on Hillwood’s Lunar Lawn, an exclusive exhibition preview of Prêt-à-Papier, and the company of renowned contemporary Belgian artist Isabelle de Borchgrave herself.
Photo Courtesy of HillwoodMuseum.org
Prêt-à-Papier is a beautiful masterpiece which depicts key periods in fashion history ranging from the late 17th to the early 20th century, using nothing but simple rag paper. Through crumpling, pleating, braiding, and painting, de Borchgrave achieves the effect of various textiles and creates the illusion of haute couture. Some of these paper dresses include gowns worn by famous figures and those created by prominent fashion designers.
Photo Courtesy of HillwoodMuseum.org
Beginning June 16 until December 30, de Borchgrave will showcase more than 25 quintessential interpretations of historical costumes and haute couture dresses, with six new works made for this exhibition, including one commissioned solely for Hillwood.
For more information, visit Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens.
WHERE:
Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens
4155 Linnean Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20008
Ph. 202-686-5807
OPENING CELEBRATION: Thursday, June 14 at 6:30 pm. Tickets start at $250 and $500. Table reservations start at $2500. For table reservations call: (202) 243-3974. Sponsorships are also available.
REGULAR EXHIBIT: June 16- December 30, 2012. Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm. Closed Mondays and most national holidays. Open on Select Sundays throughout the year. Suggested donation is $15; $12 for seniors (65 and older); $10 for college students; $5 for visitors age 6 to 18. Donation waived for visitors under age 6.
PARKING: Complimentary
