Researched and Presented by Lauren Drapala
ABOUT
The 1933-34 World’s Fair in Chicago continued what was then a very American tradition of building its art-making and design practices off of the modernizing influence of its French counterparts, both celebrating and expanding upon the design language and cultural heritage that was so attractive to Americans in the midst of the Depression. The complex allure of French art and bohemian lifestyle was the source of inspiration for many an American artist, including Edgar Miller.
Miller provided artistic direction for “The Streets of Paris” concession at the World’s Fair, drawing on an interconnected community of artisans, designers, and creatives, to give a wider audience an authentic, albeit sensational version of bohemian laissez faire atmosphere. The concession was the most popular one at the Fair, and helped Miller forge his own unique sense of artistry and whimsy early in his career.
This lecture was presented by Lauren Drapala preservationist, historian and PhD candidate in History of Decorative Arts - Design History and Material Culture at Bard Graduate Center in New York, NY.
DePaul Art Museum
October 4th, 2018
Presentation
Essay
