Ann-Sofie Back’s ‘Go As You Please’: Fashion, Funerals & Chewing Gum Corsets
Welcome, fashion aficionados and curious onlookers, to the latest theatrical production of the avant-garde world of Ann-Sofie Back. Now, before you roll your eyes, this isn’t just some tedious academia wrapped in fabric. We’re talking about an exhibition that’s equal parts cheeky catwalk and morality play, served with a side of horror that would make even Tim Burton raise an eyebrow. Yes, we’re about to dive into the fantastic universe of ‘Go As You Please’ at Liljevalchs – and trust me, it’s more exhilarating than track pants on a Sunday.
Picture this: a series of open caskets. Because when you think ‘fashion exhibition’, who doesn’t want a little Shakespearean gloom? These aren’t just caskets for the dearly departed – oh no. These are vessels of creativity, showcasing the stylish journey of Back since 1998. Walk through these portals and you may start to wonder if you’ve stumbled into a performance art piece or a very avant-garde funeral.
The End of an Era for a Fashion Virtuoso
Now, back to the woman of the hour, Ann-Sofie Back. In a stunningly honest revelation, she declares, “Yes, I have stopped being a fashion designer.” This isn’t just a statement; it’s practically a fashionista’s equivalent of a mic drop. It’s as if Alexander McQueen decided to stop being fabulous on a whim! The question on everyone’s lips is – what gives?!
This exhibition marks her last foray into the fashion world, and she’s leaving us with a bang… or rather, a gasp! Just as you think you’ve seen it all, there it is: a corset crafted from chewing gum that Back and a colleague chewed on for two whole months. This makes me think – is there a fashion trend for grateful dentists on the rise?
Religion, Violence, and… Cut-Up Panties?
As you glide your way through the exhibit, expect to encounter themes that are the stuff of either genius or madness. From sex to violence, and even the occasional nod to religion, her collections span the tumultuous realms of society’s obsessions. A personal favourite on display is the thong skirt from the ‘Celebrity Obsession’ collection, which could give Twiggy a run for her money. It dissects the British tabloids’ relentless quest to puncture the souls of famous women like Kate Moss and Amy Winehouse. Who said fashion couldn’t have a political edge?
And here’s a little tidbit that’ll stick in your mind: a 3D-printed death mask of her own face. Talk about putting yourself out there! That’s a commitment that says, ‘I’m ready for the high fashion afterlife.’ But who wants to die with regrets? Not Back, apparently. She wants a second chance – in her own right – by immortalizing her visage in the most literal sense.
The Final Bow
As this bold exhibition draws to a close, we are left asking: What truly defines fashion? Is it fabric and stitches, or is it the stories woven into them? Ann-Sofie Back’s journey through design challenges us to reconsider the very fabric of society, wrapped in a stylish yet unsettling package.
Perhaps there’s still a flicker of hope for her fashion legacy. I mean, who doesn’t want a corset made of chewing gum hanging in their closet? It’s the kind of mystery that might just elevate an outfit from drab to fab. So, if you’re brave enough to embrace a dash of chaos and a pinch of cheeky rebellion, make your way to Liljevalchs before the show’s curtain falls. After all, what’s life without a little bit of scandalous flair?
Llaboration, where one could argue that it explores the peculiar relationship between public figures and their admirers. There’s a lot to unpack in that conception – or maybe it’s just cut-up panties. Regardless, Back’s work is thought-provoking in the best sense, igniting discussions on cultural norms.
### Interview
**Editor:** Welcome, Ann-Sofie! It’s a pleasure to have you here today. Your latest exhibition, “Go As You Please,” is generating quite the buzz. How did you come up with the concept of combining fashion with themes of death and the macabre?
**Ann-Sofie Back:** Thank you! It’s great to be here. When I began conceptualizing this exhibition, I wanted to challenge the conventional aesthetics of fashion. Death is such an integral part of life, and I think using open caskets as a metaphorical space allows visitors to confront both their fears and joys around fashion and existence. It creates a dialogue that’s always been important to me.
**Editor:** That’s a fascinating perspective. You mentioned in your statement that you have stopped being a fashion designer. What led to that decision?
**Ann-Sofie Back:** It was a culmination of experiences. After years in the industry, I felt like I was putting myself in a box. I wanted to extract myself from conventional fashion cycles and explore broader artistic expressions. This exhibition is my final act as a fashion designer, but it doesn’t mean the end of my creative journey.
**Editor:** Speaking of the exhibition, what inspired you to create a corset out of chewing gum? That’s certainly a striking choice!
**Ann-Sofie Back:** (laughs) Well, the chewing gum corset embodies a kind of playful absurdity and challenges the notions of waste, obsession, and what materials can mean in fashion. It tells a story of dedication and almost a kind of rebellion against traditional luxury materials. Plus, who wouldn’t want to think about their fashion choices in relation to something so ubiquitous and, frankly, relatable?
**Editor:** I love that! Each piece in your collection seems to have a story behind it. One standout is the “thong skirt” from your “Celebrity Obsession” collaboration. What message were you hoping to convey with it?
**Ann-Sofie Back:** The “thong skirt” explores the fine line between admiration and objectification present in celebrity culture. It speaks to how society often consumes its idols in a very surface-level way while ignoring deeper implications. It’s both sexy and somewhat absurd, encouraging viewers to think critically about what fame does to individuals and to us collectively.
**Editor:** It certainly sounds like you’re pushing boundaries in more ways than one! As you step away from fashion design, how do you envision your future creative endeavors?
**Ann-Sofie Back:** I’m excited to explore other forms of art and performance beyond fabric and runway. I’d love to delve into installations, film, and maybe even writing. My goal is to continue provoking thought and conversation about identity, culture, and societal norms.
**Editor:** We can’t wait to see where your creativity takes you next! Thank you so much for sharing your insights, Ann-Sofie.
**Ann-Sofie Back:** Thank you for having me! I hope everyone finds something to reflect on at ”Go As You Please.”
