Anne-Karin Furunes’s works are on view at Nordenfjeldske Kunstindustrimuseum in Trondheim, Norway, until 15 August 2021. The exhibition Plissé explores some of the hidden stories inside art history by bringing the monumental portraits by Furunes in dialogue with Delphos, an iconic silk gown from the museum’s own collection.

The dress Delphos, made in 1907 in Venice, was considered one of the most important creations of fashion designer Mariano Fortuny (1871-1949). The pleating machine that made the dress possible was actually invented by his wife, Henriette Nigrin. In later years it was revealed that she was also the designer of Delphos.

Furunes is known for her monochrome portraits of individuals who have been marginalized, forgotten or silenced in the history. From Fortuny’s archives she found photos of anonymous women who wove his textiles. Of these photos she has recreated portraits using her own perforating technique, highlighting the life and craft of the women and unraveling the stories behind the genius-myths of art history.

Photo: Plissé, Anne-Karin Furunes, Nordenfjeldske Kunstindustrimuseum / Stiftsgården | Photo: Freia Beer