Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Stephen Burrows, Patrick Kelly, Valentino, Vivienne Westwood, Alexander McQueen… These are just a few of the world-class designers whose stunning creations were selected for Ebony Fashion Fair—a traveling spectacular that helped redefine the concepts of empowerment, pride and achievement for African Americans.
Inspiring Beauty brings together forty show-stopping ensembles, including haute couture and ready-to-wear gowns, feathered coats and statement designs from the 1960s to the 21st century. MAG is the only Northeast venue for the show, which is the first to explore the history of the Ebony Fashion Fair and the inspirational woman behind it, Eunice Johnson.
Inspiring Beauty: 50 Years of Ebony Fashion Fair was developed by the Chicago History Museum in cooperation with Johnson Publishing Company, LLC, presented by the Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum, and toured by International Arts & Artists, Washington, DC.
In Rochester, it is presented by the Gallery Council of the Memorial Art Gallery and New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and the New York State Legislature. Major support is provided by The Gouvernet Arts Fund at the Community Foundation, Abigail Riggs Collection, Canandaigua National Bank & Trust, and Wahl Media. Additional funding is provided by three anonymous donors, City of Rochester, COMIDA, FULL MEA5URE, John D. Greene Endowment for Contemporary Exhibitions, Robert L. and Mary L. Sproull Fund, and Nocon & Associates, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.
Media sponsors are the Democrat and Chronicle Media Group and News10NBC.