Dior Illustrated at Somerset House is an exhibition of René Gruau's free flowing work for this Parisian house. René Gruau's (1909-2004) bold brush strokes tell stories that go beyond simply illustrating.Running from 10 November to the 9th January at Somerset House, the exhibition is a celebration of the man who put his mark on the style of Dior. The power of Gruau's talent can be appreciated in original illustrations for Christian Dior Parfums, vintage perfume bottles, sketches and magazines and Dior Haute Couture dresses. Gruau's sweeping lines conjure up pouting beauties with their hair piled high, or show us a glimpse of a cool as cucumber socialite at the centre of a throng of adoring males. With Gruau, less is more and just a few judicious brushstrokes and intense colours bring to life an era of elegance and glamour. A close friend of Christian Dior, Gruau captured the essence of Dior in the most delightful way.
