Francesco Vezzoli Brings Karl Lagerfeld’s Memphis Vision Back to Life

Karl Lagerfeld, the late fashion icon known for his avant-garde vision, left an indelible mark not only in fashion but also in the realm of design. His fascination with the bold, geometric aesthetics of the Memphis design movement is the focus of an upcoming exhibition at Almine Rech Monaco. Titled Francesco Vezzoli presents: KARL GOES TO MEMPHIS Tribute to a historic encounter in Monte Carlo, the exhibition will showcase Lagerfeld’s extensive collection of Memphis furniture alongside archival imagery and personal artifacts that illuminate his unique aesthetic sensibility.

Founded in 1981 by Ettore Sottsass, the Memphis Group disrupted conventional design with its vibrant colors, asymmetrical shapes and playful irreverence. Lagerfeld, captivated by its radical departure from traditionalism, immersed himself in this movement, amassing an impressive collection of Memphis pieces that once adorned his Monaco apartment. His affinity for the movement was evident in his own creative work, which often mirrored the audacious spirit of Memphis design.

The exhibition will reconstruct Lagerfeld’s living space, allowing visitors to step into a world where fashion and design seamlessly converged. Pieces from iconic Memphis designers such as Sottsass, Nathalie Du Pasquier and Michele De Lucchi will be on display, reflecting the movement’s ethos of blending art, functionality and humor. Beyond furniture, the showcase will also feature Lagerfeld’s sketches, photographs and design inspirations, offering a comprehensive view of how the Memphis aesthetic influenced his broader creative pursuits.

Curated with a keen eye for Lagerfeld’s eclectic tastes, Francesco Vezzoli presents: KARL GOES TO MEMPHIS Tribute to a historic encounter in Monte Carlo seeks to explore the dialogue between fashion and design. It highlights how Lagerfeld’s appreciation for radical artistic expressions extended beyond clothing and into the spaces he inhabited. Through this exhibition, Almine Rech Monaco not only celebrates the designer’s legacy but also underscores the enduring impact of the Memphis movement on contemporary aesthetics.

Francesco Vezzoli presents: KARL GOES TO MEMPHIS Tribute to a historic encounter in Monte Carlo will be on view at Almine Rech Monaco from March 20 to May 24, in collaboration with Memphis. The exhibition promises to be a vibrant homage to Lagerfeld’s fearless creativity, providing an intimate glimpse into his world and the inspirations that shaped his illustrious career.

Almine Rech Monaco
20 Av. de la Costa, 98000 Monaco