The first Yvonne Todd show to open in Tauranga is Barnacles. It is the artist's first exhibition in the Bay of Plenty, and it represents an ongoing investigation into female portraiture.
Commissioned by Tauranga Art Gallery, this exhibition explores a range of themes mostly presented in the large-scale prints and confronting poses Todd has become known for.
A faceless figure called Infanta dressed in a stern Victorian style gown made of fabric in a psychedelic print, models dressed in oversized mittens, bibs and quilted fabrics, and a self-portrait with an exposed pregnant belly are all part of the new show.
Although beautiful, the models in Todd's work do not radiate warmth, charm or cheerfulness. They are often vacant looking, with an awkward stance and uncomfortable expressions. They usually appear in heavy makeup dressed in formal or glamorous clothing, photographed against a plain backdrop.
The artist has built an impressive collection of costumes over the years. Most of them have been purchased online.
Her collection includes several gowns created by American fashion designer Bob Mackie.
Also known as 'The Sultan of Sequins', Mackie is best known for dressing entertainment icons.
For Barnacles, Todd has moved away from her usual glamour and vintage designer garments to replace them with designs made from curtains and other household fabrics sourced at Spotlight.
In September, a second Yvonne Todd show opens at Tauranga Art Gallery. Called Fictitious Bodies and visualised by Te Papa curator Claire Regnault, this accompanying show brings together some of Todd's most striking female portraits and garments, including a gold sequined Bob Mackie dress that belonged to Whitney Houston.
Barnacles is on from August 19 to November 6, and Fictitious Bodies is at Tauranga Art Gallery between September 3 and December 4.
