ART du JOUR – The Live Gallery 7th March 2013
Captivating the room with her inimitable aura of grace and elegance, I spent a delightful evening with Leiela as she starred in The Live Gallery last night. It was a treat to be reconciled with the true spirit of femininity, which emerged from her evening gowns through refined silhouettes and delicate silk sentiments. Guests were charmed by the classical aesthetic of Leiela’s latest evening wear collection, which filled the space with an appreciation of what constitutes the ‘eternal feminine’ in both fashion and art. These days it is rare that we find ourselves immersed in the presence of authentic handmade garments, let alone gowns that are crafted like works of art, each infused with an unmistakable glint of personality. No two gowns are alike, and what set the scene for the evening was a celebration of craftsmanship and ingenuity as dreams and designs laid out on paper come to life in full glory.
Forgoing the typical catwalk show which often detracts from the essence of the garment making craft, guests at The Live Gallery were transported to a soiree-like tableaux of colour and texture, in which the violin’s melodious hum set the mood as models in Leiela gowns became live exhibits around the room. Like alabaster statues they stood in show stopping creations of silver sequins, white silk, ruffled flowers and metallic satin, interacting with guests in an intimate manner through which minute details on the gowns such as hand-embroidery, crystal stoning and overlays were appreciated at close proximity. A silk painting display onto a white Leiela gown by Studio 941 was a highlight of the evening, as guests witnessed the synergy between art and fashion being brought to life. As the blushing pink flowers were painted on the dress in their youthful delicacy, I could not help but think of what Monet or Renoir might have felt as they dappled the first strokes of paint onto a blank canvas; a sense of infinite potential invested in the creative aesthetic and the capacity of the hand and eye to express this notion.
I think enchanting is the most suitable word to describe Leiela’s effect on her guests at The Live Gallery. From the raw, yet chic ‘workroom’ feeling of the studio (where boxes of ribbons, zips and trims joined spools of cotton and rolls of fabric to allude to the humble origins of all masterpieces), to the tiny Leiela logo imprinted on my pastel cupcake; every aspect of the evening was dedicated to providing an entire experience for all in attendance. It is safe to say that no soul was disappointed.
I would like to acknowledge the inspiring work of Lucy Laurita and the Leiela team, and thank them for a truly wonderful night. A big congratulations to everyone involved in making The Live Gallery an event to remember. Leiela should be so proud of her ability to bring together a community of like-minded individuals to celebrate the spirit of artistic creation.
