The V&A East Storehouse reached out to Es Devlin four years ago, seeking her vision for a 100-year-old theatrical backdrop painted by the Russian artist Natalia Goncharova. The backdrop, created for the 1926 London production of The Firebird by the Ballets Russes, depicts a fortified Muscovite cityscape adorned with onion domes and spires. Devlin, known for her striking set designs across music, fashion, and sports events, found inspiration in Goncharova's self-description as an “everythingist.” This connection ignited a creative spark for Devlin, who is celebrated for her ability to craft immersive experiences.
In her studio, Devlin works on various projects, each one a testament to her diverse artistic capabilities. Musicians including Beyoncé, the Weeknd, and Adele have all enlisted her to create stunning visuals for their tours. Her designs transcend simple stage setups, weaving narratives that complement the music, allowing the audience to engage with the performance on a deeper level. For Beyoncé's 2016 Formation World Tour, Devlin collaborated closely with the star to create a set that reflected themes of empowerment and identity.
Devlin's work is not confined to music. In 2019, she designed the set for the opening ceremony of the Rugby World Cup in Japan. The event attracted over 70,000 spectators at the Tokyo Stadium, showcasing her ability to blend sports and art seamlessly. The ceremony featured a dramatic display of cultural and athletic achievements, pulling in elements from traditional Japanese arts while celebrating the global spirit of rugby.
The retrospective at the V&A East Storehouse highlights Devlin's journey as a designer. The exhibition features sketches, models, and visualizations of her most significant projects, along with insights into her creative process. Visitors can explore how she translates complex ideas into visual form, examining her approach to storytelling through design. Devlin herself expressed her excitement about the exhibition, saying, “I hope it ignites curiosity in others to explore their own creativity.”
Devlin's collaborations extend beyond music and sports. Her work with high-profile fashion brands, including Louis Vuitton, showcases her versatility. In 2020, she designed a stunning set for the Louis Vuitton Spring-Summer show, merging fashion with theatrical presentation. The runway transformed into a dreamy landscape, blurring the lines between fashion and art. This approach has made her a sought-after designer in both industries.
Despite her success, Devlin remains deeply connected to her roots. A Londoner through and through, she draws inspiration from the city’s rich cultural history. Her designs often incorporate elements that reflect London’s diverse identity, making her work resonate with a global audience. Devlin believes in the power of art to provoke thought and inspire change, a theme that runs through her projects.
As the retrospective opens, it offers a glimpse into the mind of an artist who refuses to be pigeonholed. Devlin's ability to shift seamlessly between various realms of creativity illustrates her expansive vision. Her work invites audiences to question the boundaries of art and entertainment, urging them to participate in the experience rather than simply observe.
Es Devlin continues to redefine what it means to be a contemporary set designer. Her willingness to engage with both historical and modern influences allows her art to remain relevant in an ever-changing landscape. The retrospective at the V&A East Storehouse stands as a significant moment in her career, celebrating a decade of innovation and artistry.
In a world where spectacle often overshadows substance, Devlin’s work commands attention for its ability to tell stories that resonate on multiple levels. Each project reflects her belief that art is an essential part of the human experience, capable of sparking dialogue and connection. As she said, her aim is to ignite curiosity, and with each new endeavor, she certainly achieves that.
According to The Guardian.
