Running until November 20, it is the first solo exhibition for renowned Australian fashion designer Toni Maticevski. 

He has achieved international acclaim for his dexterous ability to morph, adapt and defy the boundaries of fashion. Through his practice, Maticevski reinvents classic forms and techniques with an almost obsessive approach to detail.

Sourced primarily from his extensive personal archive, Dark Wonderland reveals the beauty and breadth of his oeuvre, with elegant and ethereal objects contrasting with bold sculptural garments that transform the human form.

Exhibition tickets can be purchased online. 

To accompany this exciting exhibition, the gallery is offering associated public programs.

Wednesday, August 17: Free event, 10am, La Trobe University Visual Arts Centre. Guest speaker Dhav Naidu, creative director, fashion and beauty editor, will discuss ‘Dreams do come true if you stay awake’. Naidu will elaborate on Toni Maticevski’s unapologetic creative process from the outset of his career.This event is presented by the Friends of Bendigo Art Gallery. Hearing loop available.

Friday, August 19: 10.30am to 3pm, the gallery is presenting a special fashion illustration workshop. With a rich history as a freelance fashion illustrator and lecturer in illustration at RMIT, Ange Réhe currently produces work for both Australian and international clients, ranging from wine labels to fashion magazines. Limited places are available for adults to participate in this creative fashion illustration workshop. Cost is $40 members, $50 non-members. Includes lunch courtesy of The Schaller Studio, part of Art Series Hotel Group. Please advise of any dietary requirements when booking www.bendigoartgallery.com.au.

In celebration of Maticevski: Dark Wonderland, there will be a screening of The First Monday in May, with an introduction by the exhibition curator. To be held at 7pm, Friday, August 19, at the Star Cinema, Bendigo. The film delves into the debate about whether fashion should be viewed as art. It has been described as ‘fashion’s biggest film since The September Issue’. Tickets are $15, concession and Star/gallery members, $13, seniors and under 16, $10. To book, please contact Star Cinema on 03 5446 2025. 

For teachers, on Tuesday, August 30, there will be a stimulating professional development day that will feature a presentation on the collaboration by Phillip Adams, Balletlab with Maticevski. Included is a curator talk and a practical workshop, with fashion teacher Michelle Goode, focusing on sculptural manipulation of fabric. Each teacher will also receive a booklet of Maticevski fabric swatches. Cost is Bendigo Art Gallery and DATTA members, $90, non-members, $100. RSVP August 23. For information, h.attrill@bendigo.vic.gov.au.