October 2, 2024

PHILADELPHIA, October 2, 2024—The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University (the Academy) enters the world of fashion, in collaboration with the Robert and Penny Fox Historic Costume Collection (FHCC) of the Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design, to present the new special exhibition The Ecology of Fashion. The exhibition examines the interconnections between fashion and the natural world and will go on display Saturday, Nov. 16 through Sunday Aug. 31 in the Dietrich Gallery.

Featuring stunning and provocative garments from the FHCC, diverse and wondrous specimens from the Academy's collections, and works by contemporary change-makers, The Ecology of Fashion boldly shows how materials, production processes and our own patterns of clothing consumption impact the world around us.

“From the raw materials drawn from fauna, flora, fungi and fossil fuels, to the agricultural and manufacturing processes behind their making, the clothing that we wear is deeply interconnected with the natural world,” said Marina McDougall, vice president of Experience and Engagement for the Academy. “The Ecology of Fashion at the Academy of Natural Sciences vividly presents a series of tableau exploring fashion and its environmental impacts, inspiring visitors with ways in which we can participate in bringing about positive change.”

Visitors will see contemporary household designer names and modern high-end brands — Oscar de la Renta, Givenchy, Levi Strauss & Co. — and learn how they continue to draw inspiration from the natural world, including, for a limited time during the exhibit, the highly exclusive evening gown, designed by Givenchy made of a rare coral and worn by Princess Grace of Monaco. The exhibit lays bare that designers often pay homage to nature even while utilizing materials and processes that can cause harm and how a single style trend, such a coat worn by First Lady Jackie Kennedy, can lead to devastating impacts.

“It is exciting to present the items from the Robert and Penny Fox Historic Costume Collection in an interdisciplinary context. The pieces on display in The Ecology of Fashion exhibition- from renaissance velvets to pleated polyester- tell a story about our environment, our history and our future,” said Clare Sauro, director of the Robert and Penny Fox Historic Costume Collection, who co-curated the exhibit along with McDougall.

In addition to seeing pieces that demonstrate the connection between fashion and nature, visitors will have the opportunity to explore how shifts in textile production and fights to address labor rights may be encouraging more environmentally friendly and ethical practices. The exhibition aims to inspire visitors to make more sustainable choices for their own closets.

The Ecology of Fashion will kick off with a celebratory open event on Saturday, Nov. 15, 6:30 – 9 p.m. at the Academy. Guests will get an exclusive preview of the exhibition alongside a bevy of fashion-forward activities including a vast thrift marketplace curated by Now + Then Market, fashion illustrations done on site by FABSCRAP, live weaving demonstrations along with music, food and drinks. Guests are encouraged to wear their favorite upcycled or thrifted outfits.

Tickets for the opening event are $25, with discounts for students and Academy members.

The opening event is the first of many workshops and events inspired by the exhibition throughout its run at the Academy. Some of the items on display from the FHCC will be rotated halfway through the exhibition due to their fragility, allowing for a fresh experience for guests who make repeat visits.

All exhibits are included with the purchase of a general admission ticket. For more about the Academy’s admissions, exhibits and programming, visit ansp.org.

Contact:

Kaitlyn Foti Kalosy
kfk38@drexel.edu
215-299-1777

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About the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University
Founded in 1812, the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University is a leading natural history museum and scientific research organization dedicated to understanding the natural world and inspiring everyone to care for it. The Academy is a constant source of innovation, education and engagement with environmental justice. It is home to more than 19 million scientific specimens in its world-class collections. Learn more at ansp.org and follow the Academy on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.