Manuela Caniato Textile Art

07-04/2024 – 31/07-2024

The exhibition left a profound impression on me. I witnessed creations that truly amazed me with their craftsmanship, know-how, savoir-faire, particularly in the realm of embroidery, which is my primary interest.

Some garments were crafted using the technique of tapestry. Classic works of Italian painting were reimagined as evening gowns or show costumes using this method, known as needlepoint or canvas work.

An intriguing detail was that in one of these dresses, a fragment of the base canvas was left visible, allowing viewers to admire the glittering foundation. This indicates that even the canvas was custom-made for D&G, following their specific instructions—glitter included, sparing no detail. The attention to detail is obsessive! Up close, it becomes evident that the tapestry was executed with a cross-stitch, rather than half-stitch, showcasing the classic cross-stitch technique.

Another aspect that struck me was the use of fur as a decorative element on some dresses.

Among all the magnificent garments, those inspired by the mosaics of Ravenna resonated the most with my personal taste.

Unfortunately, it was not possible to touch the garments or look underneath them, so I couldn’t examine the reverse side of the work.

The exhibition unfolds in a series of rooms inspired by the classical traditions of Italian culture: opera, white baroque, Sicilian carts, gold—each theme dear to the two designers, who emphasize the richest, most opulent, decorated, and embroidered aspects in their clothes. There’s the Venetian carnival, several bridal dresses, Ravenna mosaics, and a room dedicated to devotion with numerous ex-voto hearts. Each room is lavishly decorated, showcasing various men’s and women’s garments.

The exhibition is quite popular. I visited on a Tuesday afternoon, and while there was no queue, the venue was bustling, with everyone eager to take selfies in front of the outfits.

Minimalism is completely alien to the aesthetic of these two designers, who live by the motto “More is More.” Yet, every garment reflects incredible technical expertise and remarkable creativity. The exhibition is highly recommended even for those not particularly passionate about fashion. It can be visited in a relatively short time, is spectacularly set up, and is a feast for the eyes and ears.