Devi Vallabhaneni
My work inhabits a new artistic genre: Abstract Couture. It is a contemporary art form where abstraction finds its expression through the ethos and materials inherent in Haute Couture. My artistic vocabulary is shaped by a dialogue between the worlds of fine art and high fashion. The minimalist principles of Josef Albers and Donald Judd inform my understanding of color and shape, providing a structured foundation. This minimalism serves as a canvas for a rich maximalism, inspired by couturiers like Hubert de Givenchy and Karl Lagerfeld, alongside the bold and imaginative spirit of Schiaparelli and clean lines of Chanel. I explore intricate textures, layered patterns, and a dedication to meticulous detail within this defined space. I invite viewers to engage with my unique vision: to experience the dynamic relationship between materials, shapes, textures, colors, and patterns, and to recognize the intricate and painstakingly laborious process of "thinking like a couturier." Each piece I design is a continuous exploration, akin to proving a theorem, where multiple visual elements, components, and conceptual ideas converge to narrate a compelling story. My practice is a deliberate conversation between the rigorous precision of couture and the boundless freedom of abstraction, a dialogue enriched by the enduring contributions of both male and female visionaries.
Exhibitions:
Fashion Vignette I
2022
Mixed Media
5x4 Inches