1925 Paris Arts Decoratifs Exhibition & its influence on design

2025 will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the international 1925 Arts Décoratifs exhibition in Paris (giving its name to the style later to become known as Art Deco). Visitors from around the world, museum curators, retailers, and the international press descended on Paris to see and buy the designs which would influence a new generation of artists and designers. We will ask such questions as – Why Paris? Was there a distinctive style? Who were the key movers and shakers? Which were the key disseminators?

Using original black and white photographs set against actual colour artefacts, we will recreate the experience of walking through the stunning showcase pavilions. The exciting cornucopia will include glass by René Lalique, furniture by Ruhlman, lacquer by Jean Dunand, metalwork by Edgar Brandt, graphic poster design by Cassandre, fashions ranging from Paul Poiret, Sonia Delaunay and a very young, Coco Chanel. Attendees will also have the rare opportunity to see the original catalogue, a souvenir commemorative medallion, original fashion plates by leading couturiers and rare vintage postcards from my personal collection.

How to book this event:

Come along to Christchurch Hall on the Stray Harrogate before 19.30 (doors open at 18.30) or contact niddvalley@theartssociety.org for further information

THE ARTS SOCIETY ACCREDITED LECTURER

Ms Mary Alexander

Mary Alexander trained as an art historian and graduated with a BA Hons in History & History of Art (University College London) and later an MA (with Distinction) in History of Art (University College London).

She moved to Manchester to take up the post of Assistant Curator at Platt Hall, the Gallery of English Costume, a renowned collection of historic dress. Subsequently she lectured in art history at the University of Leeds, the Open University and Manchester University Extra Mural Department. From 1995 - 2008, she was a Visiting Lecturer at Christie’s Education in London.

Mary has also combined academic work with the world of design consultancy. In 1985 she joined Pentagram Design in London, a leading international design consultancy, and coordinated client presentations, publications, conferences and international special events, including the 1986 British Design event in Aspen Colorado. In 1988 she transferred to Pentagram’s New York office with the task of organising an international design conference held at Stanford University involving business, design and education leaders.

As an experienced international speaker, Mary lectures regularly for The Arts Society throughout the UK, Europe and Australia and New Zealand. She also contributes articles to magazines, newspapers and professional journals. She was President of The Arts Society Glaven Valley, Norfolk from 2016- 2021.

GALLERY