Christian Louboutin’s Shoe Exhibition Opens at Palais de la Porte Dorée in Paris
The Palais de la Porte Dorée in Paris is currently hosting the inaugural major exhibition focused on French footwear designer Christian Louboutin, which will be open until July 26, 2020. Curated by Olivier Gabet, the exhibit comprises eleven thematic spaces that explore Louboutin's three-decade journey, featuring both his own creations and loaned pieces, including the renowned Pigalle (2004) and Love (1991) heels. The display emphasizes influences from travel, pop culture, and art, alongside collaborations with notable figures such as Aretha Franklin and Rihanna. A unique room dedicated to fetish themes showcases shoes captured by David Lynch. Louboutin, who was inspired by the Palais during his youth, created his first shoe, the Maquereau (1987), after encountering a sign prohibiting stilettos there.
Key facts
- Exhibition runs until July 26, 2020 at Palais de la Porte Dorée, Paris.
- Curated by Olivier Gabet, director of Musée des Arts Décoratifs.
- Eleven thematic rooms covering Louboutin’s 30-year career.
- Most works from Louboutin’s personal collection; some never exhibited before.
- Highlights inspirations: travel, pop culture, cinema, art, theater, dance, literature.
- Collaborations with Aretha Franklin, Leonardo DiCaprio, Rihanna, Dita Von Teese, David Lynch.
- Fetish room created with David Lynch, featuring his photographs.
- Louboutin’s first shoe design Maquereau (1987) had scales and a fish tail.
- He decided to design heels at age 12 after seeing a sign at the Palais.
- He worked for Charles Jourdan (Christian Dior) and was assistant to Roger Vivier.
Entities
Artists
- Christian Louboutin
- Olivier Gabet
- Roger Vivier
- David Lynch
- Aretha Franklin
- Leonardo DiCaprio
- Rihanna
- Dita Von Teese
Institutions
- Palais de la Porte Dorée
- Musée des Arts Décoratifs
- Folies Bergères
- Charles Jourdan
- Maison Christian Dior
Locations
- Paris
- France
- 12th arrondissement
- Palais de la Porte Dorée
- 293 avenue Daumesnil