In this session of Addressing Images we will watch a clip from one of Busby Berkeley’s extraordinary film spectacles of the 1930s, to discuss the way movement, body and costume combine to create extravagantly choreographed dance sequences, and the issues raised by such presentations of women.
Addressing Images opens up discussion of dress’ significance within imagery – whether paintings, prints, photographs, advertisements, film stills or drawings. It brings together dress and art historians, as well as those interested in exploring issues and meanings within representation. A single image will be shown in each session, giving participants the opportunity to re-examine familiar, and confront new representations of fashion and dress. We will rethink images through the lens of dress history, and consider what is shown from the perspective of participants’ own research. The aim is to provide a forum to debate, share reactions to images, and to consider ideas about fashion, dress and representation in an informal environment. This reflects our desire to share and build upon the innovative work being undertaken in this field at the Institute with the wider community, and beyond.
Taking place over the lunch hour, these sessions are open to all.
Organised by Dr Rebecca Arnold (The Courtauld)