Abstract
Marc Jacobs Unseen is 'the first publication dedicated to Marc Jacobs‘s highly influential creations‘*, described by The Observer as 'a rare insight‘ and Vogue as 'a real revelation‘. The particular focus of this critical appraisal is the personal archive (a recurring feature in Webb‘s practice), notably those of the subject (Marc Jacobs), the photographer (Robert Fairer), and the author (Webb). The genesis of the text for this sole-authored book that accompanies new primary material in the form of Fairer‘s previously unseen backstage images, is research from Webb‘s own archive, amassed over four decades during his career at the forefront of the fashion industry, and represents a culmination of the author‘s commitment to the promotion of the importance of the archive as material culture, as methodology and as providing an individual insight into creative thinking. The text takes the form of painstakingly assembled commentaries, each presenting a study of specific collections, highlighting particular garments and ensembles along with an analysis of environment and staging. 'Working with Iain R. Webb…was illuminating,‘ says Fairer. Jacobs Unseen is a valuable and illuminating analysis for both colleagues and students, especially those working in areas of fashion design, journalism and visual communication.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Marc Jacobs Unseen |
| Editors | Jenny Wilson, Adelia Sabatini |
| Place of Publication | UK |
| Publisher | Thames & Hudson |
| ISBN (Print) | 978-0500021606 |
| Publication status | Published - 6 Sept 2018 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Bibliographical note
Impact: Webb‘s knowledge of and insight into fashion history and context, ensures this is a significant piece of work that will add to the learning and understanding of the role of the designer - the creating of an aesthetic and visual identity and of representation and interpretation - by placing Jacobs‘ extensive body of work in perspective of outside influences and popular culture that resonates beyond the catwalk and the clothes. Commissioned by global publisher Thames & Hudson, who are recognised for the quality of their publications, which are both academically rigorous, ground breaking in terms of subject matter yet also accessible to a wide reaching readership. The book sits within the broader design culture with particularly interest for those within the domains of fashion theory and design research.Keywords
- Art and design