Solid Gold
THE BROOKLYN MUSEUM
20 Wyckoff Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237
November 16, 2024–July 6, 2025
In celebration of the Brooklyn Museum’s 200th anniversary, Solid Gold presents over 400 remarkable pieces, combining standout works from the museum’s collection with captivating international loans. The exhibition explores fashion’s infatuation with gold, showcasing iconic designs by Anna Sui, Christian Dior, Demna, Gianfranco Ferré, Giorgio di Sant’Angelo, Halston, Mary McFadden, The Blonds, Walter Van Beirendonck, and Yves Saint-Laurent. Alongside these creations, gold-ground paintings, sculptures, coins, and other treasures shine, accompanied by exquisite jewelry from Alexander Calder, Belperron, Bulgari, Cartier, Charles Loloma, Jacob & Co, and Verdura, and even grillz by Gabby Elan. While celebrating the enchanting allure of this radiant material, Solid Gold also confronts its complex legacy, sparking conversations about the human and environmental toll of gold mining. Immerse yourself in this exhibition and discover one of humanity’s most enduring obsessions.
“Behold the majesty of gold in a shimmering exhibition dedicated to the element that has inspired countless works of art, fashion, film, music, and design. As a material and a color, gold has symbolized beauty, honor, joy, ritual, spirituality, success, and wealth throughout history. It has also taken on myriad forms: from millennia-old depictions of an idealized world to opulent 13th- and 14th-century Italian altarpieces and intricate Japanese screens, to contemporary artwork and haute couture marvels. With a sweeping range of objects and a global perspective, this exhibition will trace the many odysseys of the metal that has influenced cultures and legacies worldwide.” – Brooklyn Museum
Solid Gold is organized by Matthew Yokobosky, Senior Curator of Fashion and Material Culture; Catherine Futter, Director of Curatorial Affairs and Senior Curator of Decorative Arts; and Lisa Small, Senior Curator, European Art; with Imani Williford, Curatorial Assistant, Photography, Fashion, and Material Culture.
