The Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams exhibition has arrived at the Saudi National Museum in Riyadh, offering an unparalleled tribute to the creative vision and timeless legacy of the French Maison. Running from November 21, 2024, to April 2, 2025, this retrospective unveils over seventy-five years of Dior’s history, seamlessly blending haute couture artistry with Saudi Arabia’s vibrant cultural landscape as part of Riyadh Season 2024.
Curated by Florence Müller and brought to life through scenography by Nathalie Crinière, the exhibition begins with a stunning re-creation of 30 Montaigne — the iconic heart of Dior where dreams materialise into fashion. This immersive opening transitions into a journey through Dior’s artistic evolution, tracing Christian Dior’s beginnings as a gallerist to his revolutionary role in couture. Key milestones, from the debut of Miss Dior to the pop-infused freshness of Marc Bohan’s ready-to-wear collections, are celebrated alongside the transformative influences of Dior’s successive artistic directors.
The exhibition also highlights the masterful craftsmanship of Dior’s ateliers in the “salle des toiles,” where the petites mains’ virtuoso skill takes centre stage. Dior’s timeless icons, like the Lady Dior bag, find new dimensions through the Dior Lady Art project; while the famous Colorama, a bewitching cabinet of curiosities, reaffirms the essential role of Dior accessories, showcasing how the Maison’s storied designs continue to inspire modern creativity.
Paying homage to Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage, the exhibition weaves in an enchanted narrative inspired by the Al-’Ula oasis, a historic jewel of the Medina province. Hypnotic dresses, echoing the sunlit hues of the desert, reflect the shared appreciation between Dior and Saudi Arabia for nature’s beauty. This journey culminates in an idyllic couture herbarium, where Riyadh’s namesake as the “City of Gardens” blossoms in delicate embroidery and romantic prints.
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photography. Cedric Ghossoub
words. Gennaro Costanzo
