Fancy Feathers, Murderous Millinery

Dear Artists and Designers,

ARTPORTAL is seeking original, outrageous hat designs for our upcoming Spring 2024 art show, and we're inviting you to participate. We're seeking hats that both embrace tradition and reach beyond, blending artistic expression with the elegance and extravagance of derby fashion. Whether you're a seasoned milliner or emerging in the world of design, we want to see your unique interpretation of derby hat style.

Theme: Fancy Feathers, Murderous Millinery

Submission Deadline: extended to March 18th, 2024

Show Date: April 11th, 2024- May 11th, 2024

Theme:

The derby turns 150 years old this year, and to celebrate the tradition of derby fashion we are looking back to headwear fashion of the Victorian age for this call. And just what, in 1870’s, was all the rage? Plumage…or, to quote from the women of the Massachusetts Audubon Society, “murderous millinery.”

From 1870’s - the early 1900s, feathers became the must-have decor to add to garments, boas, parasols, etc. As the field of taxidermy expanded, entire birds began to be displayed- most prominently on headwear. The Victorian plumage fashion craze led to the near extinction of several species of birds.

The tradition of taxidermy fell off in the 1920’s, thanks to the efforts of conservationists, and a new hairstyle called “the bob.”

While taxidermy is no longer a practice in popular headwear (thank goodness), a tradition of extravagant, over-the-top design is still embraced for the annual Kentucky Derby. This year, we want to see your contemporary take on the above history of fashion. How do you interpret the idea of a “Fancy Feathers, Murderous Millinery”

Submission Guidelines:

• Medium: All mediums are welcome (vintage or previous taxidermy items are ok. No animals should injured in the making of your hat). From traditional fabrics to unconventional materials, let your imagination run wild.

• Size: Hats can range from petite fascinators to extravagant headpieces. Surprise us with your take on size and scale.

• Theme: While the derby hat tradition serves as a starting point, feel free to incorporate your own artistic theme or narrative.

Submission Process:

• Please submit images of your hat design to art@portal-louisville.com by March 18th.

• Include a brief artist/designer statement describing your inspiration, materials, and any relevant details.

• Selected artists will be notified by March 30th.

Selected hats will be prominently featured in ARTPORTAL April 11th - May 11th.

Don't miss this chance to be part of a unique exhibition that celebrates creativity and pushes the boundaries of derby hat design. We look forward to receiving your submissions and making this an unforgettable derby event!

For inquiries, please fill out the form below and leave us a message.

Thank you for being a vital part of the vibrant arts community at ARTPORTAL!

Best regards,

Rebecca Norton
Program Director
ARTPORTAL