Serving as a large-scale retrospective dedicated to the iconic designer Rick Owens, the Palais Galliera in Paris is set to transform into a “Temple of Love.”

Extending beyond the museum’s interior and enveloping its facade and garden in his distinct aesthetic, Owens himself is acting as the artistic director for this unprecedented exhibition. Showcasing over 100 of his iconic fashion silhouettes alongside personal documents, videos, and installations, all curated to reflect his unique blend of underground culture and 1930s glamour, the much-anticipated show promises to dive deep into Owens’ successful and decorated career. The exhibition will notably feature a recreation of the California bedroom he shares with his wife, Michèle Lamy, and a display of 30 brutalist cement sculptures, emphasizing the raw, architectural elements that define his work.

Not only showcasing Owens’ design evolution, the ‘Temple of Love’ will also place his creations in dialogue with works by artists who have influenced him, including Gustave Moreau, Joseph Beuys, and Steven Parrino.This juxtaposition aims to illuminate the diverse inspirations that have shaped his aesthetic, from his early days as a pattern-cutter in Los Angeles to the establishment of his eponymous label in 1994. The exhibition’s scope, deemed “unprecedented” by the Palais Galliera, will immerse visitors in Owens’ world, offering a comprehensive exploration of his artistic vision and its impact on contemporary fashion. The sequin-embroidered fabric wrapping the museum’s exterior will serve as a striking introduction, setting the stage for the immersive experience within.