A new aesthetic phenomenon is spreading across the worlds of art and fashion: the aesthetics of mending. For a new generation of artists and designers, recycled materials, deadstock, and sophisticated mending techniques are fuelling the creation of valuable narratives and ornamentation, giving new life to clothes and providing fertile ground for new aesthetic expression.
Beautiful Repair explores the aesthetics of mending in contemporary art and fashion according to the concept that there is beauty in a great variety of visual expressions and imperfection.
The exhibition is curated by CC’s director, Marie Laurberg, in partnership with ALPHA’s director Ane Lynge-Jorlén.
Installation view Beautiful Repair, Copenhagen Contemporary (2023). Photo: David Stjernholm
Minna Palmqvist, Under Pressure Shirt N 3/6 + Intimately Social 4.09 (2009). Installation view Beautiful Repair, Copenhagen Contemporary (2023). Photo: David Stjernholm
Kristine Sehested-Blad, Ode to Possibilities (2018). Installation view Beautiful Repair, Copenhagen Contemporary (2023). Photo: David Stjernholm.
Beatrice Stenmark, Hair-dressing collection (2022). Installation view Beautiful Repair, Copenhagen Contemporary (2023). Photo: David Stjernholm.
Installation view Beautiful Repair, Copenhagen Contemporary (2023). Photo: David Stjernholm.
Zadie Xa in collaboration with Benito Mayor Vallejo, Cellular Portal (2019), Mary (2019), Yumino (2019), Performance costume for Child of Magohalmi and the Echoes of Creation (2017-2020), Scorpion (2021). Installation view Beautiful Repair, Copenhagen Contemporary (2023). Photo: David Stjernholm.
Tenant of Culture, Eclogues (Series) (2019). Installation view Beautiful Repair, Copenhagen Contemporary (2023). Photo: David Stjernholm.
Ella Morris, Treasure Suit (2021), Christening Suit (2021). Installation view Beautiful Repair, Copenhagen Contemporary (2023). Photo: David Stjernholm.