Discover the Beauty and Artistry of Yves Saint Laurent at the Marrakech Museum (Trip to North Africa)
Nestled in the heart of Marrakech is a stunning tribute to one of fashion's greatest icons, Yves Saint Laurent. The museum, designed by Studio KO, offers a glimpse into the life and work of this celebrated designer. As the first museum in Morocco dedicated to fashion, it has become a must-visit attraction for fashion enthusiasts and tourists alike. Here is everything you need to know about the Museum of Yves Saint Laurent in Marrakech.
History of the Museum
The museum, inaugurated in October 2017, was created to pay tribute to Yves Saint Laurent's deep connection with Morocco. Saint Laurent, a French fashion designer, first visited Marrakech in 1966 and fell in love with its vibrant culture, colors, and architecture. He eventually purchased a home in the city, known as the Villa Oasis, which later became the foundation for the creation of the museum. The museum houses 5,000 garments and 15,000 accessories inspired by Moroccan art and culture, as well as drawings, photographs, and documents that provide insight into Saint Laurent's creative process.
Design
The museum's architecture reflects Saint Laurent's love for Marrakech and Moroccan style. The museum's façade features a traditional brickwork lattice known as a moucharabieh, with earthy hues that are characteristic of the city's landscape. The building's interior is decorated in vibrant colors inspired by Morocco's landscapes and features dramatic curved shapes, with galleries and exhibition spaces arranged around a central courtyard.
Exhibitions
The museum hosts an impressive collection of Yves Saint Laurent's haute couture items, including his iconic "Mondrian" dress, inspired by the Dutch abstract artist, Piet Mondrian. Other displays showcase Saint Laurent's love for traditional Moroccan clothing and embroidery, which was heavily incorporated into many of his collections. Each exhibition is thoughtfully arranged to evoke a sense of the context and inspiration behind each collection.
Education and Workshops :
The museum has become a center for fashion education and innovation in Morocco. It offers workshops and courses catering to various ages and interests, from fashion design to embroidery techniques. The museum's educational programs, launched in 2018, provide unique access to fashion industry professionals and experts and creative instruction in new and traditional techniques tailored to the Moroccan context.
Visiting Details :
The museum is located in the heart of Marrakech, and is open seven days a week from 10AM to 6PM. Admission costs 100 Moroccan Dirhams (approximately 11 US dollars) and is free on the first Sunday of every month. Visitors are encouraged to book their tickets in advance, as the museum has become one of the city's most popular attractions.
Conclusion
The Museum of Yves Saint Laurent represents an exceptional tribute to one of the fashion world's most beloved icons. By showcasing both his life and work in Morocco, the museum serves as a bridge between Western and Eastern fashion, and a valuable cultural exchange center. If you are planning a trip to Marrakech, this museum is undoubtedly a must-visit for any fashion enthusiast or lover of arts and culture.
