Valentina Cortese, the exhibition at Palazzo Morando

09/12/2013

The first Italian actress to win the title of international diva, an elegant performer in theatres across Europe, Valentina Cortese has been, and continues to be, a great style icon. From 11 September to 10 November 2013, an exhibition at Palazzo Morando is hosting a selection from the actress’ wardrobe: from the iconic Capucci to the more recent Ferre, including French perfume and Burano lace lingerie.

In the exhibition “Valentina Cortese. Uno stile” (Valentina Cortese. A Style), overseen by Elisabetta Invernici and Antonio Zanoletti, her clothes and accessories trace her personal life, as well as over 50 years of fashion. Reproducing a chronological history was, however, impossible: this invaluable iconographic heritage transcends trends and years; it manifests itself as a constant expression of unconventional and elegant fashion. The diva wore the demanding sculpted dresses by Capucci without ever being overpowered by them; she transformed the scarf, worn on her head like the peasant women with whom she grew up, into a well-known hallmark. She brought purple to the entertainment world, and faithfully pursued grace and beauty.

To accompany the exhibition, organised in collaboration with the National Chamber of Italian Fashion, there will be a series of archive photographic portraits, several recent unpublished shots by Giovanni Gastel, collected in a book published by Skira: “Valentina Cortese. 100 ritratti” (Valentina Cortese. 100 portraits). A title which stands as a tribute to this great actress, who will have the pleasure of meeting the participants on 29 September, 2.30 pm at Palazzo Morando.