Calling all shoe and fashion lovers! Step out with SCAD FASH as the fashion museum presents “Form & Function: Shoe Art by Chris Francis,” an exhibition of iconic footwear by the Los Angeles-based designer.
Chris Francis blurs the line between fashion and art, crafting sculptural, even architectural, designs characterized by unconventional techniques, strong colors, bold shapes and sharp lines. Influenced by the early 20th-century Bauhaus school of design, he manipulates a wide range of uncommon shoemaking materials such as glass, concrete, metal and plastic. “Form & Function” approaches Francis’ work expressively as wearable art, presenting a selection of designs that channel the rebellious, DIY spirit of the punk rock movement.
A self-taught shoe designer, Francis is a former art student, graphic designer, and carpenter, and has tailored those skills to the shoemaking discipline. Unable to secure an apprenticeship within the contemporary shoemaking community in Los Angeles, he sought out time-honored, immigrant artisans, acquiring their vintage machines and tools to learn the trade for himself.
This is the first time Francis’ work will be shown in Atlanta. Previously , he has had a solo exhibition at Craft Contemporary, Los Angeles, and has participated in group exhibitions at the Palm Springs Art Museum and Richmond Art Center, California. His designs have been featured in Vogue, Metropolis magazine, and Ornament magazine, among others. “Form & Function: Shoe Art by Chris Francis” is curated by Rafael Gomes, director of fashion exhibitions.
Learn more at scadfash.org.
[Artwork credit: Chris Francis, “Shoe Machine,” painted leather, leather, wood and rubber, 2015]
WHAT
“Form & Function: Shoe Art by Chris Francis”
WHEN
On view now until December 8, 2019
WHERE
SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion + Film
1600 Peachtree St. NW
Atlanta, Georgia
scadfash.org