A Jewish fashion editor has advocated for the upcoming Met Gala exhibition focusing on designer John Galliano's work, arguing that his creations deserve a place in a museum, even in light of his past antisemitic statements.
In February 2011, Galliano was filmed making racist remarks, including antisemitic slurs, in a Parisian cafe. The incident led to his dismissal from Christian Dior and his subsequent departure from the fashion world. The editor recounts burning a Galliano-designed Christian Dior dress in 2011 as a reaction to his comments, which she found deeply personal and hurtful.
News of the Met Gala exhibition, scheduled for the following May, prompted frustration and anger within the fashion industry and among Jewish communities. The timing of the announcement, released on a Friday evening before the Sabbath, also drew criticism for potentially excluding observant Jewish professionals from immediate reaction. This comes at a time when antisemitic incidents have reportedly increased in New York City, with over 56% of reported hate crimes attributed to antisemitism according to a recent NYPD release.
Despite the pain caused by Galliano's past statements, the editor suggests that an exhibition of his work is appropriate for several reasons. First, Galliano has reportedly spent the fifteen years since the incident engaging in rehabilitation, including meeting with Jewish leaders and a therapist. This process of addressing his past actions is seen as significant and worthy of acknowledgment.
Second, the editor emphasizes the extraordinary nature of Galliano's designs for Christian Dior and Maison Margiela, asserting that his creations are artistically significant and belong in a museum, akin to how literary works or philosophical ideas are preserved and studied, regardless of their creator's flaws.
Third, drawing on Jewish tradition, the editor notes a philosophical emphasis on confronting past transgressions, acknowledging them, and then moving towards a form of reckoning that allows for shared humanity and eventual progression. This perspective suggests that while past harms should not be forgotten, accountability and a willingness to move forward are also important tenets.
The editor acknowledges that the decision to feature Galliano's work is not easy and does not negate the personal hurt caused by his past. She still experiences discomfort when his designs are worn publicly. However, she plans to see the exhibition, not as a sign of redemption for Galliano, but as an acceptance of the human capacity for brokenness and the ongoing process of rebuilding, a concept central to the Jewish idea of tikkun olam, or repairing the world.
The exhibition will showcase Galliano's impactful designs, which are described as "gasp-worthy." The editor concludes by reflecting on her past act of burning a Galliano dress, stating that some things, like her initial naivete about creators living harmoniously with their creations, cannot be saved.