Sculpting the Senses: Brooklyn Museum Extends Iris van Herpen Exhibition and Announces Live Pleating Performances

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Brooklyn Museum Press Archives / October 2026

Answering overwhelming public acclaim and critical praise, the Brooklyn Museum officially announced the exhibition extension for Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses, now on view through January 3, 2027.

Hailed by Time Out for its bioluminescent algae, laser-cut dresses, and complex 3D-printed haute couture, the exhibition explores a visionary intersection between technology, biology, and fashion craftsmanship. To celebrate the extension, the museum also hosted a special participatory performance series titled Sculpting the (Un)Spoken, offering visitors a rare opportunity to engage directly with the Dutch designer in meditative handwork and pleating within the gallery spaces.

Exhibition Extension & Participatory Highlights

The acclaimed retrospective brings together cutting-edge innovation and organic craft:

  • Exhibition Extension: Officially extended through January 3, 2027, allowing visitors additional time to experience the multi-sensory showcase.

  • Critical Acclaim: Praised by The Wall Street Journal for presenting "a passion that goes beyond clothes" and celebrated by Harper’s Bazaar for its jaw-dropping garments.

  • Sculpting the (Un)Spoken Performances: A participatory weekend series (October 30 – November 1) featuring live conversations and collaborative pleating sessions alongside Iris van Herpen.

  • Exhibition Retail Shop: Exclusive museum catalogues, designer tote bags, and curated collection items available both in-store and online.

Exhibition Parameters & Visitor Overview

To assist fashion critics and museumgoers planning their visit, the Brooklyn Museum outlines core exhibition details:

Exhibition Parameter Details & Specifications Exhibition Title Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses New Closing Date Extended through January 3, 2027Host Institution Brooklyn Museum, New York Special Programming Participatory Pleating Performances with Iris van Herpen (Oct 30 – Nov 1)