Calling all pattern lovers, the work of Orla Kiely (also known as the Queen of Prints) is currently being exhibited at the Dovecot Studios in Edinburgh, and goodness what a treat her work is to behold. Inspired by the exuberance of the 1960s and a love of Irish and Scandinavian architecture, Kiely’s designs have grown from humble beginnings in the 1990s to being instantly recognisable across the globe. With unique access to the company archives, you too can enjoy a joyful and privileged insight into a life dedicated to print.
From the original paper sketches for the designer’s trademark ‘Stem’ graphic born in the 1990s to the development of the iconic ‘Pear’ and ‘Flower’ designs – which all feature on everything from clothing to the much-loved handbag, the exhibition emphasises the role of ornament and colour in our everyday lives.
The fashion side of the business launched in 2003 and went on to produce four ready-to-wear collections every year, with each collection featuring signature coats, dresses and knitwear linked through colour and print. I loved the ‘Flower Explosion’ dress in greens, pinks and purples. Another favourite was the wool crepe smock dress in ‘Cute as a Fox’ print or the dirndl dress in ‘Around the World’ print. One whole wall in the exhibition space features row upon row of fabulously colourful bag after fabulously colourful bag. Swoon! In the final room of the exhibition prepare to be amazed by the giant-sized dresses hung from the rafters, designed to make us feel like children as we wander Alice in Wonderland style. And in wall-mounted cabinets in the same room, prepare to see the exact same dresses in miniature. Very cute!
Sadly, the Orla Kiely fashion label went into liquidation in Autumn 2018, but distributors continue to sell accessories and homewares through the home and design licensing arm of the business. Think of the exhibition as being a retrospective and a celebration – but definitely not a full stop.
Catch Orla Kiely: A Life in Pattern at the Dovecot Tapestry Studios on Infirmary Street in Edinburgh ‘til 29 June.
Credits: ‘A Life in Pattern’ by Orla Kiely - Conran Octopus Ltd 2018, Artfund and Craft Scotland February 2019, Dovecot Tapestry Studios Edinburgh February 2019, The Edinburgh Reporter 6 February 2019 and, The Herald 5 February 2019.
