Lee Heidhues 10.22.2021
Liz and I cycled along Car Free JFK Drive in Golden Gate Park to the de Young Museum on Member Preview Day to view the stunning Patrick Kelly fashion exhibit titled Runway of Love.
His work is both a fashion statement and a political commentary on the racism felt by black people in America
Patrick Kelly was born in Vicksburg, Mississippi in 1954. He perfected his art in America and emigrated to Paris as a young man. He discovered himself and was discovered by the European fashionistas where he became a celebrity in his adopted country.
His potential was cut short when he was diagnosed with AIDS in August 1989 and died four months later on January 1, 1990. Patrick Kelly left an impressive fashion legacy.
His friend and client Gloria Steinem spoke at his memorial service in Paris saying, “Instead of dividing us with gold and jewels, he unified us with buttons and bows.”
Following are photos of Patrick Kelly’s fashion creations taken by Liz and me.
https://deyoung.famsf.org/exhibitions/patrick-kelly
Lee's Perspective 