the brief
Prop Studios were invited by H&M to collaborate on their ‘Love’ display for the Liljevalchs exhibition ‘Utopian Bodies: Fashion Looks Forward’. 16 Swedish designers were commissioned to create unique garments to explore different themes that imagine the futures of the adorned body whilst focusing on the positive aspects of fashion.
The exhibition presents a utopian world focused on innovative thinking and imaginative fashion.
design & manufacture
The exhibition is divided into 11 themes, H&M explores ‘Love’ and how fashion has the potential to intensify communication and engagement.
The centrepiece of the ‘Love’ installation comprises of a mannequin dressed in the H&M exclusively designed ‘Love’ dress. Recessed within the mannequin is a pulsating LED heart beating visibly and audibly faster as visitors approach and interact with the display. Surrounding the mannequin are suspended LED rods which follow the hearts rhythm with flashes pulsing from the heart through the rods. This was created using a hidden sensor system within the mannequin and suspended LED rods which were wired into a central software system allowing us to visually project the tempo of a beating heart. The result is a mesmerising multi-sensory experience for visitors.
To emphasise fashion’s tactile qualities and how it can create attraction between humanity as a whole the rays of light disperse out from the mannequin as a unifying experience for viewer’s engagement.
In keeping with the exhibition’s futuristic theme the mannequin and ceiling was finished in black glitter.
