May 18 marked the opening of the “Halston and Warhol: Silver & Suede” exhibition at The Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh. The exhibition examines the interconnected lives and creative practices of Andy Warhol and Halston – two American icons who had a profound impact on the development of 20th century art and fashion. The exhibition integrates Halston’s garments and accessories with photography, video and paintings by Warhol.
Not only did Halston collect Warhol’s artwork, which he displayed in his 63rd Street Manhattan townhouse and Montauk retreat rented from Warhol, but Halston was also portrayed in several of Warhol’s artworks. In 1979, Warhol dedicated a chapter of his book, Andy Warhol’s Exposures, to Halston, describing him as the ‘first All-American fashion designer.’
The exhibition will include approximately 40 of Halston’s creations including an iconic pillbox hat designed for Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis in 1961, and his signature Ultrasuede shirtdress, juxtaposed with Warhol’s paintings, photographs, and videos. It will also feature archival material and ephemera from the archives of The Warhol and the personal collection of Lesley Frowick relating to the two artists’ practices.
“Silver and Suede” will be at The Andy Warhol Museum through August 24. The exhibition coincides with the restaging of the museum with Warhol’s work now hung in chronological order. Visitors can experience how Warhol’s work evolved by beginning at the top and journeying down, moving from early work to later.
“The celebration of Halston’s influence as a fashion designer and tastemaker of timeless trends is a perfect fit for The Andy Warhol Museum,” said Eric Shiner, director. “The campaign captures the whimsy and fun of Halston and Warhol and is certain to attract fashion and design fans.”
The Andy Warhol Museum, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the place of Andy Warhol’s birth, is one of the most comprehensive single-artist museums in the world. It is one of the four Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh.