Charles James, the renowned fashion designer, who has widely been considered America’s first couture designer, is a name most people know. From now until October 5th, The National Arts Club will be showcasing 80 never before seen sketches by Charles James, which is free and open to the public daily from 11am until 5pm.
The collection, entitled Charles James: Beneath the Dress, which belongs to R. Couri Hay, a writer and longtime friend of James, showcases both fashion and erotic drawings. Sprinkled in among the drawings of dresses and coats, the erotic sketches are not for the shy, the drawings depict some pretty graphic scenarios. The limited time exhibit also features a short film that contains rare footage from Anton Perich and Hay’s 1970s documentary, along with interviews with James. Additionally, the exhibit also showcases a selection of photographs taken by Anton Perich of James in The Chelsea Hotel.
The opening of the exhibit, which took place on Monday evening, hosted a slew of big names to kick off the show. In attendance were Harvey Weinstein and Georgina Chapman, and the reception was hosted by Cornelia Guest, Amanda Hearst, Anne Hearst McInerney, Patricia Hearst Shaw, Gillian Hearst Simonds and Kimberly Rockefeller.
Make sure to stop by and check out the exhibit while you can!
Twisted Talk: What do you think of Charles James? Are you interested in checking out his artwork? Discuss below!
