THE SHOPHOUSE's Latest Exhibition Examines the Universe of Martin Margiela

Ushering its next exhibition, Unveil Limited’s THE SHOPHOUSE project turned its attention to the universe of Martin Margiela. Looking into the Belgian fashion designer’s career and lasting influence on the fashion world, the immersive showing is centered around the documentary Martin Margiela: In His Own Words by Reiner Holzemer. Curated by media figure Edward Chiu, the showcase explores Margiela’s unconventional and inspirational work from various angles during his time at his namesake label, Maison Martin Margiela now known as Maison Margiela.

Starting at “THINGS” concept space on the main Ground Floor, photographs from the June 2020 issue of 198201111959 Magazine founded by Junsuke Yamasaki grace the walls. The visuals take from Daisuke Hamada’s zine included in the issue spotlight archival Martin Margiela pieces provided by LAILA TOKIO worn by Japanese actress Nana Komatsu. The June 2020 issue of 198201111959 Magazine is available for purchase for $198 HKD (approximately $25 USD). At the center of the floor are the personal effects of Edward Chiu that illustration his career in media through a connection with Martin Margiela. The personal mementos range from his first Margiela show invite and archival artifacts to exclusive London store opening releases.

The “MEZZANINE” just above the “THINGS” space serves as a Martin Margiela library with numerous publications from the designer and other related reading materials. LAILA TOKIO has taken over the “STORAGE” element of SHOPHOUSE with an array of vintage Margiela items take from the iconic Tokyo vintage fashion purveyor founded by Hideo Hashiura. The carefully selected lineup features a carefully selected lineup of apparel and accessories from Margiela’s time at his namesake label, mainly focusing on his artisanal creations.

Finally, the “GALLERY” space on the third floor has been transformed into a screening room for Martin Margiela: In His Own Words. The notable 2019 documentary directed by Reiner Holzemer incredibly profiles Margiela’s career from Jean-Paul Gaultier’s assistant to the creative director at Hermès to leading his own brand. Aside from offering looks at the designer’s drawings, notes and personal items, the film features interviews with Jean-Paul Gaultier, Carine Roitfeld, Trend Forecaster Lidewij Edelkoort, fashion critic Cathy Horyn and fashion historian Olivier Saillard. The documentary is shown every Saturday and Sunday at 5:30 p.m. HKT (doors opening at 5:15 p.m. HKT) with tickets available via online booking.

Through THE SHOPHOUSE, the ambient sound played is provided by cult composer, sound artist and music producer, Frédéric Sanchez. Sanchez offers the original soundtracks he produced for Martin Margiela from 1989 to 1995 to enhance the sensory experience of the exhibition. Specifically, the soundtracks span from Margiela’s Spring 1989, SS90, Fall 1990, SS92, FW93 and SS95 shows.

THE SHOPHOUSE
4 Second Lane
Tai Hang, Hong Kong

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