Rad Hourani’s gowns probe into the complex relationship between dress, power, and identity. The clothing we wear is a direct reflection of who we are and where we stand in society. For centuries, royalty has set a dressing standard for their subjects to adhere to and an unattainable standard to set themselves above others. Different cuts and textiles served and continue to serve as socio-political markers, setting women and men, rich and poor, apart. Rad Hourani creates an assortment of sculptural gowns to render his vision of a world led by a conscious and equal structure.

Although clothing is what allows for categorization, whether it is class or gender, this creation is one of inclusion. By using noble materials such as fine silks, velvet, or textiles adorned with sequins, all made out of 30 meters of said fine materials each, the garments appear as ceremonial vestments, both alien and familiar, ancient artifacts converging with architectural form, intimidating by their splendor. Not unlike the royal gowns of yore, Rad Hourani’s ensembles instill a sense of intrigue and respect amongst the viewers.

Nonetheless, his vision introduces a fair ruling class, secular and unidentifiable: the sculptures are created in Rad Hourani’s signature genderless anatomy that erases and encompasses both genders, accessorized with masks that conceal the identity of the wearer. By veiling all human identifiers, the ensembles present themselves as cryptic entities, powerful and transcendent. It is the lack of identity that makes the pieces all the more powerful: fear of the unknown and the incomprehensible—what is beyond human control—is the mightiest tool of control.

© 2019 RAD HOURANI

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