14:00 — 16:30
Bookpresentation: Queering Masculinities in Antwerp Fashion
As part of the Antwerp.Fashion Festival, Nicola Brajato will present his book Queering Masculinities in Antwerp Fashion. During his research, Brajato made extensive use of the rich archives of the MoMu library. Especially for this occasion, the library will display a special selection from its collection, which can be viewed in the afternoon.
In Queering Masculinities in Antwerp Fashion, Brajato outlines the historical development of the Antwerp fashion scene, focusing on designers such as Walter Van Beirendonck, Dirk Bikkembergs, Raf Simons, Bernhard Willhelm, and Glenn Martens. Their work challenges traditional gender norms, makes space for non-normative bodies, and explores queer perspectives through both subtle and explicit visual languages.
Drawing on archival material from Belgian and international fashion institutions—including images from fashion shows and campaigns, invitations, and lookbooks—and supplemented by interviews with key figures, Brajato positions Antwerp as a vital hub for reimagining masculinity and identity through experimental fashion practices.
During this book presentation, Nicola Brajato will engage in a conversation with Eve Demoen. Together, they will explore how fashion can reshape our thinking about masculinity, identity, and the body, and what this means in both historical and contemporary contexts.
