Mycelium Materials Magic: About Iris van Herpen's Sustainable Textiles

About Iris van Herpen's Sustainable Textiles
I recently had the incredible opportunity to visit the Iris van Herpen exhibition in Brisbane and was particularly excited to see her groundbreaking work inspired by mycelium. Van Herpen, known for her innovative and avant-garde approach to fashion and design, has been at the forefront of incorporating sustainable and eco-friendly materials into her creations. Her exploration of mycelium as a muse for fashion design has captured the attention of the industry and the public alike. But what sustainable materials does Iris van Herpen use to capture her inspiration derived from Nature?

Mycelium Materials
Mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms, has gained recognition for its versatility and sustainability. I became aware of this fundamental part of Nature at The Walking Forest project, where each of the thirty women chosen was expected to act as the mycelium spore, spreading the news regarding climate change in their networks.
Van Herpen's experimentation with mycelium as an inspiration for textile and structural elements in her designs was a further bold step towards redefining the relationship between fashion and Nature. Her ability to seamlessly integrate this organic material's form into her intricate and otherworldly designs is a testament to her unparalleled vision and technical expertise.

As I strolled through the exhibition, considering what it was about Iris van Herpen's sustainable textiles that I found mesmerising, I was struck by the way van Herpen's pieces transcended traditional textiles - they felt like living organisms, breathing and evolving. The mycelium creations seemed to embody a harmonious coexistence between technology, art, and the natural world. It was clear that van Herpen's work not only pushes the boundaries of fashion and textiles but also advocates for a more sustainable and ecologically conscious industry, fostering a sense of connection and appreciation among the audience.
I approached this exhibition differently, having gained knowledge from the VAA's Artist Curation & Exhibition Management course. The show's details kept me in the space for over two hours, and I could have spent longer. The variety of lighting used transfixed me, the use of reflective surfaces, videos, the description and grouping of the themes, the variety of spaces curated, places to sit and contemplate, complimentary pieces from their collection to compliment the gowns, the insider information on her process (particularly fascinating), and the sheer size of the exhibition. I spoke to an employee of the gallery and remarked on how big a curation job Iris's exhibition must have been. Although it had come straight from Paris, it still needed some modifications that had been seamlessly integrated - I couldn't tell!
Though the flax exhibitions I plan are embryonic to this behemoth, I still wondered which facets I could incorporate. That is why I wrote this blog: so I don't forget to consider awe alongside the story and the pieces.

One particular piece that captivated me was a sculptural gown that seemed to organically grow and envelop the wearer, blurring the lines between fashion and Nature. The juxtaposition of the delicate, organic mycelium with the sleek, modern lines of the garment was both striking and thought-provoking. It prompted me to reflect on the possibilities of harnessing Nature's wisdom in textiles (as I try to) and its profound impact on our collective environmental consciousness.
Conclusion: About, In & Through The Other Side Of Iris Van Herpen's Sustainable Textiles
Iris Van Herpen's exploration of mycelium for me is about a powerful testament to the transformative potential of sustainable textiles in the creative industry. Her steadfast commitment to pushing the boundaries of design while honouring the natural world is a beacon of hope for designers and enthusiasts. As I departed from the exhibition, I found myself not only in awe of van Herpen's artistry but also filled with optimism about the profound implications of her work with mycelium on the future of textiles and sustainability.