MORE THAN A TRADITIONAL EXHIBITION, “SALVATORE FERRAGAMO 1898-1960” IS A CAPTIVATING COIL OF MEMORY, A PROFOUND EXPLORATION OF THE MUSEUM’S ROLE, AND A CELEBRATION OF CURATORIAL PRACTICES.
THIS RETROSPECTIVE HONORS FERRAGAMO’S LEGACY AND INVITES AUDIENCES TO REFLECT ON THE INTRICATE INTERPLAY OF FASHION, HISTORY, AND THE EVER-EVOLVING DIALOGUE BETWEEN PAST AND PRESENT.
In a mesmerizing tribute to a century of style, Ferragamo proudly unveils the retrospective exhibition, “Salvatore Ferragamo 1898-1960,” at the Museo Ferragamo in Florence. This exhibition marks the centennial milestone of the iconic brand’s first store in Hollywood, bringing to life the extraordinary journey of Salvatore Ferragamo, renowned as the ‘Shoemaker to the Stars.’
Step into the illustrious life of Salvatore Ferragamo, where creativity and modernity converge to shape a legacy that continues to inspire. From the opening of the Hollywood store in 1923 to earning the title ‘Shoemaker to the Stars’ for crafting shoes for cinematic masterpieces like Cecil B. DeMille’s The Ten Commandments, Ferragamo’s journey is a visual narrative through pivotal moments in fashion history.
This unique exhibition showcases Ferragamo’s evolution from craftsman to visionary entrepreneur, delving into his foray into cinema, theater, and ballet shoes, diversifying his production and solidifying his status as a global fashion protagonist. A century of elegance and innovation unfolds, offering a captivating look into Ferragamo’s passionate exploration of color, anatomical knowledge, craftsmanship, and diverse inspirations from art and culture.
Revisiting the first exhibition on Salvatore Ferragamo in 1985 at Palazzo Strozzi, this retrospective project pays homage to the trailblazing event that set the stage for a new perspective on fashion as a cultural message imbued with values and meanings. From Ferragamo’s birth in 1898 to his passing in 1960, the exhibition not only highlights the aesthetic value of his creations but also underscores his entrepreneurial and innovative prowess.
The Ferragamo Archive, born from the 1985 exhibition, preserves the company’s journey and gave rise to the Ferragamo Museum, “Museo Ferragamo,” in Florence in 1995. This dedicated space ensures the legacy of the founder and the brand, fostering conversations that bridge the past and the present. Today’s project represents a synthesis of Ferragamo’s contribution to post-war craftsmanship and the Made in Italy identity. It emphasizes the fusion of decorative tradition, artisanal excellence, functionality, and technological innovation that defines Italian design.
WHO WAS SALVATORE FERRAGAMO?
Salvatore Ferragamo, born on June 5, 1898, in Bonito, Irpinia, embarked on a remarkable journey from a young craftsman to an iconic figure in the fashion world. Passionate about shoemaking, Ferragamo’s early struggles fueled his determination to craft his first pairs of shoes at just 9 years old. His foray into America, marked by dissatisfaction with machine-made shoes, led to the opening of a custom shoe repair shop in California. Fate propelled him into Hollywood’s spotlight, where his craftsmanship earned him the title ‘Shoemaker to the Stars.’
Returning to Italy in 1927, Ferragamo seamlessly blended local craftsmanship with American production methods, solidifying his global influence. Despite facing challenges during the 1929 crisis, Ferragamo’s resilience prevailed, leading to the establishment of his iconic headquarters in Palazzo Altoviti Sangalletti. His innovative designs, including the first wedge sandal in 1937, and participation in the inaugural Italian fashion show in 1951, showcased his profound impact on the industry.
Salvatore Ferragamo’s legacy lives on through the Museo Ferragamo exhibition, “Salvatore Ferragamo 1898-1960,” commemorating the brand’s centennial. From Hollywood to Florence, Ferragamo’s life and vision transcend time, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in a century of elegance, innovation, and an enduring commitment to the art of fashion.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Salvatore Ferragamo 1898-1960
October 27, 2023 – November 04, 2024
Palazzo Spini Feroni via de’ Tornabuoni, 8, 50123 Firenze
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