The colourful works of Warrnambool-born designer and artist Lisa Gorman and iconic Australian painter Mirka Mora will feature in a new exhibition opening at the Warrnambool Art Gallery in November.
Lisa Gorman is known to many for her vibrant and collaborative designs for one of Australia’s most recognisable fashion labels Gorman which she founded in 1999 and remained as creative director before departing the business in 2021.
French-born Australian artist Mirka Mora (1928-2018) was a beloved inspiration in the Australian art and culinary scene after arriving in the country in 1951.
In 2016, Mirka and Lisa launched a collaboration for the Gorman label, adorning fashion and art lovers in Mirka’s extraordinary artwork and Lisa’s deeply creative style and fashion form.
The collaboration resulted in a friendship between the two artists and this exhibition celebrates the artists shared love of colour, illusion, other worldliness, and experimental modes of production, while highlighting the pivotal role fashion and textiles played in their daily lives.
“The thing that struck me about Mirka Mora was how much her work resembled herself, both visually and spiritually," Lisa Gorman said.
"I felt that Mirka existed in this realm of all these mystical and wonderous beings and otherworldly scenes of nature that she was creating on canvas. She definitely lived in a magical dimension.”
LISA GORMAN + MIRKA MORA: to breathe with the rhythm of the heart features select garments from their 2016 and 2018 collaborations along with Mirka's rarely shown tapestries, neon ink works, soft sculptures and works on paper.
A number of paintings from the estate of Mirka Mora will also be exhibited for the first time.
LISA GORMAN + MIRKA MORA: to breathe with the rhythm of the heart is supported by Warrnambool City Council and the Victorian Government's Regional Events Fund.
Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said the exhibition would "celebrate the work of two highly regarded female artists who have made a significant contribution to Victoria’s rich creative culture.”
“We’re delighted to support this exhibition, which will encourage visitors to Warrnambool and southwest Victoria, boosting local businesses and supporting local jobs,” Mr Dimopoulos said.
Warrnambool City Council Mayor Debbie Arnott said Council was thrilled to support “a wonderful pairing of two creative forces”.
Curated by Warrnambool Art Gallery Director Aaron Bradbrook, LISA GORMAN + MIRKA MORA: to breathe with the rhythm of the heart will run from November 18, 2023, to March 17, 2024.
Tickets available at www.thewag.com.au