Louis Vuitton 200th Birthday Exhibition in America

Initially conceived as a bicentennial celebration to honour the 200th birthday of Louis Vuitton (born August 4, 1821), this global travelling exhibition showcases 200 Louis Vuitton trunks that have each been reimagined by 200 of today’s most innovative visionaries. Artists, actors, designers, and creative talents spanning many fields were asked to put their unique spin on the iconic Louis Vuitton trunk designed in the 1850s.

Each creator invited to reimagine the original trunk was asked to base their ideas on a trunk or canvas measuring 50 x 5 x 100 centimetres, which are approximately the original dimensions of the trunk created in the 1850s by Monsieur Vuitton.

Among the names participating in this homage: Street style label Supreme, toymaker Lego, architect Peter Marino, designer Marc Jacobs, activist Gloria Steinem, make-up artist Pat McGrath, K-pop group BTS, and architect Frank Gehry. Music curator Benji B and Robert Moy’s Brooklyn Balloon Company have dedicated rooms within the exhibit.

“This project has always been about creativity – a real tribute to Louis’ ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit,” stated Louis Vuitton’s Visual Image Director Faye McLeod, who noted, “We get to see how such a cross-section of talents answered the same brief while also taking a moment to appreciate the man himself.”

The exhibition first debuted in December at the brand’s historic residence in Asnières-sur-Seine, France. Following a stopover in Singapore in April, it has now landed in Beverly Hills and will then continue to New York City. In 2023, all trunks on display will be auctioned by Sotheby’s, with 100% of the proceeds donated to charity organisations supporting young creative talents.

The show is being staged in an eye-catching orange and white striped building close to the fashion house flagship store on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills.

Guests entering the exhibition are immediately immersed in a dream world of creativity. A highlight is the “Magic Boxes” covered in digital screen panels, which evoke the heritage and project the future of the fashion house. Another immersive room, designed by Robert May, shows a trunk almost enveloped by colourful balloons of all sizes.

Visitors ascending the orange-striped stairs will conclude their exploration in a room that includes an “audio speakeasy”, featuring a 200-track jukebox trunk by British DJ and producer Benji B.

The 200 custom creations in this exhibition brilliantly honour Louis Vuitton’s legendary history and his unique savoir-faire. They are a true testament to his belief in the timeless spirit of travel.

The exhibition is open now and runs until September 6.
Free admission
468 North Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, California