CUT! Costume and the Cinema

October 12, 2018 – January 6, 2019
Changing Gallery
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Linda and Bipin Doshi
SPONSORS
Whether costume design, big-screen cinema, or famous film stars are fancied, The History Museum’s traveling exhibit CUT! Costume and the Cinema is a must-see. The exhibit, featuring over 40 costumes worn by stars in 25 films of the past two decades, is open through Sunday, January 6, 2019. CUT! Costume and the Cinema offers a journey through 500 years of fashion history, complete with all of its allure and artistry.

The cinematic couture in CUT! Costume and the Cinema represents craftsmanship and creativity as interpreted by award-winning costume designers. The exhibit is produced by Exhibits Development Group in cooperation with Cosprop Ltd., London. The History Museum’s presentation of CUT! Costume and the Cinema is made possible by the generous support of presenting sponsors Linda and Bipin Doshi, as well as the South Bend Tribune, Community Foundation of St. Joseph County’s ArtsEverywhere, Visit South Bend Mishawaka, and 88.1 WVPE Public Radio.

Gowns worn by Keira Knightley in The Duchess, Emmy Rossum in The Phantom of the Opera, and Sandra Bullock in In Love and War capture settings like 18th century England, 19th century Paris, and World War I-era Italy. Angelica Huston’s gown from Ever After takes us to fairy tale England while Kate Winslet’s costume from Finding Neverland and Johnny Depp’s from Pirates of the Caribbean exude the fantasy of the films. Likewise, Colin Farrell’s costume from The New World and Daniel Craig’s from Defiance demonstrate the films’ adventure perfectly.

Costumes on view in CUT! Costume and the Cinema have won major awards, including the Oscars from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. They are an exquisite reminder of the essential ingredient costumes play in building authenticity in period films. Costumes set the scene by providing visual information about the setting of the film, and they introduce subtle clues about the characters’ status, age, and wealth. The details and craftsmanship needed for gowns, shirts, and trousers on view in CUT easily stand up to the intense visual scrutiny needed when the camera zooms in for a close-up.

Ticket prices to The History Museum are $10/adults, $8.50/seniors (60+), and $6/youth (6-17). Members receive free admission. Prices include admission to all History Museum galleries and the Oliver Mansion. For an additional amount, tickets can also include a visit to the Studebaker National Museum, which adjoins The History Museum. Museum hours are Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.