From Puppets to Prestige: Paul Tazewell’s Exhibit Reveals the Future of Costume as Storytelling
The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago is currently hosting “Crafting Character: The Costumes of Paul Tazewell,” an exhibit that’s more than just a display of beautiful garments. It’s a deep dive into the artistry, engineering and cultural significance of costume design, and a glimpse into how the field is evolving. The exhibit, running through September 7, 2026, showcases Tazewell’s function from Wicked and Hamilton to West Side Story and his Met Gala collaborations.
The Intersection of Art, Science, and Technology
What sets this exhibit apart is its location. Housed within a science museum, it deliberately highlights the technical aspects of costume creation. As noted by Dr. Voula Saridakis, Head Curator at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, Tazewell’s career exemplifies STEAM – Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. Each costume isn’t simply designed; it’s engineered for movement, durability, and storytelling. Consider Anita’s yellow dress from West Side Story – a seemingly simple garment that requires complex construction to function during dance sequences.
Breaking Barriers and Challenging Industry Norms
Tazewell’s journey, as revealed in the exhibit, wasn’t without its challenges. He faced being “pigeonholed” early in his career, and found opportunities limited until projects like Hamilton began to open doors. This highlights a broader trend: the increasing demand for diverse representation in costume design and the importance of trusting designers to bring a wider range of stories to life. His work centering stories about people of color has been pivotal in this shift.
Costume Design as Cultural Commentary
The exhibit too underscores the power of costume to reflect and influence culture. Tazewell’s collaboration with Janelle Monáe and Thom Browne for the Met Gala’s Black dandyism-themed year exemplifies this. He emphasizes that designers often seem to the streets for inspiration, acknowledging Black style as a foundational source. This points to a growing trend of designers drawing inspiration from diverse cultural sources and using fashion to make social statements.
The Collaborative Nature of Creation
Tazewell stresses that costume design is inherently collaborative. He doesn’t create in isolation; rather, he initiates an idea and relies on a team of artisans to bring it to fruition. Actors then embody the designs, completing the process. This collaborative model is becoming increasingly common in the industry, fostering innovation and pushing creative boundaries.
The Future of Costume Design: Immersive Experiences and Technological Advancements
The exhibit hints at several future trends in costume design:
- Increased Use of Technology: Expect to see more integration of 3D printing, digital fabrication, and smart textiles in costume creation.
- Sustainability: A growing emphasis on sustainable materials and ethical production practices.
- Immersive Storytelling: Costumes will play an even greater role in creating immersive experiences for audiences, blurring the lines between performance and reality.
- Personalization and Customization: Advances in technology will allow for more personalized and customized costumes, tailored to individual performers and characters.
Did you know?
Paul Tazewell won his first Oscar for Best Costume Design for his work on the 2025 film adaptation of Wicked.
FAQ
Q: Where is the Paul Tazewell exhibit located?
A: The exhibit is at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago.
Q: How long will the exhibit be open?
A: The exhibit is open through September 7, 2026.
Q: What productions are featured in the exhibit?
A: The exhibit features costumes from Wicked, Hamilton, West Side Story, and more.
Q: Is the exhibit suitable for all ages?
A: Yes, the exhibit is suitable for all ages and interests, from theatre enthusiasts to fashion lovers.
Pro Tip: Check the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry website for free days for Illinois residents: https://www.griffinmsi.org/pricing#freeday
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