Fashion revolutionary Vivienne Westwood showcased in striking new Walker Art Gallery display

From punk provocateur to Dame of British fashion, Westwood's influential designs take centre stage

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Walker Art Gallery is proud to present 'Vivienne Westwood: Designer in Focus', a captivating new display celebrating the groundbreaking fashion designer's remarkable career spanning over five decades. On display from Friday 18 April, this stunning showcase brings together a collection of Westwood's revolutionary designs, from her punk beginnings to her status as a British fashion icon.

Located in the Craft & Design Gallery, the display features key pieces from Westwood's most influential collections, including rare items from her collaborations with Malcolm McLaren during the early 1980s. Visitors will discover how Westwood's creative vision evolved from the punk aesthetic of their Kings Road shop SEX to her later explorations of historical dress, global cultures, and classic British tailoring.

Highlights include a grey wool 'Koo tunic' from the Witches Collection (1983-84) featuring artwork by Keith Haring, the iconic 'Dunbar Suit' in pink Gordon tartan from the Anglomania Collection (1993-94) once worn by Frankie Goes to Hollywood's Holly Johnson, and a black velvet suit from the Time Machine Collection (1988-89) gifted by Liverpool-born model Julie Bramwell.

The display showcases Westwood's remarkable versatility and her ability to draw inspiration from diverse sources, from 18th century French art to Native American design elements, while maintaining her distinctive, boundary-pushing approach to fashion.

Pauline Rushton, Head of Decorative Arts, said:  

Vivienne Westwood was one of Britain's most visionary designers, whose influence extends far beyond fashion into art, culture, and even politics. This display offers visitors an amazing opportunity to explore the evolution of her extraordinary designs and understand how she transformed from punk provocateur to Dame of the British Empire.

Many of these remarkable garments come from our own collection, reflecting Liverpool's long-standing fashion connections. The addition of several key loans allows us to present a comprehensive view of Westwood's creative journey and her enduring legacy as an avant-garde artist who continuously challenged conventions.

'Vivienne Westwood: Designer in Focus' is on display from Friday 18 April 2025 and runs until October 2026.

Admission to the gallery is free, with all donations supporting future programming.