The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Vogue are planning a 2027 exhibition honoring fashion designer John Galliano, a decision that has prompted discussions with New York City's Jewish community leaders. The exhibition, titled "John Galliano: Horizon," is set to showcase the designer's work, despite his history of making antisemitic remarks.
Anna Wintour, Met trustee and Vogue's global editorial director, has met with influential rabbis and Jewish leaders to discuss potential issues surrounding the upcoming event. Galliano and Andrew Bolton, the Met's Costume Institute curator, have also reportedly participated in these meetings to seek the leaders' input.
Galliano, previously a designer for Dior, was convicted of a hate crime in 2011 for making antisemitic slurs and expressing pro-Hitler sentiments while intoxicated. He was subsequently fired from Dior and ordered to pay court fees and a fine. He later apologized, attributing his actions to struggles with alcoholism and drug addiction, and took a hiatus before returning to fashion as Maison Margiela's creative designer in 2014.
Leaders who met with Wintour, Bolton, and Galliano, including Rabbi Rick Jacobs of the Union for Reform Judaism, have acknowledged Galliano's apparent sincerity and expressed that he deserves a second chance. Jacobs noted Galliano's openness during their discussions and recognized the fear of potential resistance to the exhibit.
Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League, stated that Galliano appears to have addressed the issues leading to his past remarks and that his efforts to repair the damage should be commended. Rabbi Joshua Davidson of Temple Emanu-El suggested that the exhibition could serve as an opportunity to educate about antisemitism and the importance of combating it, while also acknowledging that some in the Jewish community may find the exhibition upsetting.
Bolton stated that organizers aim to balance artistic achievement with ethical accountability. Wintour defended the decision, telling The New York Times that Galliano's career should not be defined by a single incident and that he is deserving of such an exhibition.
Despite these efforts at dialogue, some community members have voiced criticism on social media, citing rising antisemitism and questioning the timing of honoring Galliano. Galliano, known for his transformative work at Dior and the creation of the Saddle Bag, has seen his vintage designs worn by celebrities like Zendaya and Kim Kardashian.
This exhibition would make Galliano one of the few living designers, alongside Yves Saint Laurent and Rei Kawakubo, to receive a solo exhibition at the Met. The exhibition is scheduled to open in May 2027 and will be on view until January 2028. The Met Gala itself is scheduled for May 2027.