J.W. Anderson explores gender identity in a new exhibition

The boundaries that separate art from fashion are evanescent and flexible and many designers have proved themselves within the arts and curation field, one last example being British designer Claire Barrow who set up a show featuring her post-apocalyptic paintings.

This time is J.W. Anderson's turn to take on the challenge. The Irish designer will, in fact, supervise an arousing exhibition that will delve into one of the hottest topics involving the fashion system nowadays: gender identity.

Entitled Disobedient Bodies, the exhibition will take place at the Hepworth Gallery from next spring, and will accurately explore the designer's vision, showcasing some of the inspirations that mainly helped to forge his imagery – from the photography of Alasdair Mclellan and Jamie Hawkesworth, to Louise Bourgeois' unsettling artworks and creations by Dior, Comme Des Garcons, Helmut Lang and Issey Miyake. 

Of course, some Anderson's own designs will be featured as well, along with an interactive installation at the core of the show.

Aiming to spotlight the junction between fashion, sexuality and art, Anderson has stated: “I want the exhibition to mirror the speed and unexpected encounters that characterise the way in which we consume images today, as well as being a space in which to explore ideas of gender and identity that have been a going part of my creative practice.”

Disobedient Bodies: J.W.Anderson will run at The Hepworth, Wakefield, starting from 18 March.