DIVA in Rotterdam
Immerse yourself in the world of the Diva. The exhibition DIVA celebrates the unparalleled power and boundless feminine creativity of iconic artists who have challenged the 'status quo' with their bravura and ambition. Through more than sixty looks and costume designs by world-renowned designers, worn by famous female divas. On view until March 2, 2025. An exhibition that is popular among young people. The Kunsthal has scored with this one!
What is a diva?
A diva is a celebrated singer. The term is used for a woman with a very great talent for opera (opera diva). Its usage extends to theater, film, or popular music. The meaning of diva is close to cousin donnaThe word comes from Italian, where diva denotes a female deity. Diva is therefore the feminine form of divus, which means male deity.
In Italian, the term divo also exists as the masculine form. This is used for a tenor such as Enrico Caruso or Beniamino Gigli. The masculine form was also used by Tom Lanoye for his own performance in 2010.
DIVA in de Kunsthal
Immerse yourself in the world of the Diva. The exhibition DIVA celebrates the unparalleled power and boundless feminine creativity of iconic artists who have challenged the 'status quo' with their bravura and ambition. Through more than sixty looks and costume designs by world-renowned designers, worn by Maria Callas, among others, Josephine baker, Marilyn Monroe, Tina Turner, Shirley basseyWith Cher, Elton John, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Björk, and Billie Eilish, the exhibition shows how these divas pushed boundaries with their performing arts and created a lasting impact on society.
DIVA takes you into the universe of nineteenth-century opera goddesses to the contemporary pop and rock 'n' roll culture of global superstars. The exhibition zooms in on the meaning of the term diva, which originally means goddess. Over the years, the concept has been cherished, rejected, and reclaimed and embraced by performance culture as a status to be proud of. Costumes, designer looks, personal objects, photos, videos, and a musical surround sound experience guide you through an immersive exhibition design by Studio Harm Rensink.
Opera goddesses
The first part of the exhibition focuses on the historical context of the diva. For instance, the term was used in the 19th century to describe exceptional female opera singers. Costumes of early opera stars such as Adelina Patti and Jenny Lind can be admired, as well as the impressive ensemble of 'La Divina'. Maria Callas from the opera production Norma (1952) is on display. Against a backdrop of changing views on femininity, power, and creativity, these women conquered the stage and campaigned for equality. At the same time, they were criticized for stepping outside the beaten path. Handwritten texts, video clips, and classic costumes show how actresses in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including leading British Shakespeare interpreter Ellen Terry and Dutch-French theatre legend Sarah Bernhardt, spearheaded the first wave of feminism. It also becomes clear how divas such as Josephine Baker, Elizabeth Taylor, Mae West, Vivien Leigh, and Marilyn Monroe shaped popular culture.
The evolution of the diva
In the second part of the exhibition, you enter a new world where the diva of today is celebrated. Highlights include costumes by Cher and P!nk, the famous 'flame dress' of Tina Turner – designed by American designer Bob Mackie – and Shirley Bassey's pink Julien MacDonald dress (including the diamond-studded rubber boots), worn during a concert at Glastonbury. DIVA highlights how these contemporary artists have built upon the foundations of previous generations and have been groundbreaking in a film and music world that was originally dominated by men.
Status, power and freedom
The exhibition features no fewer than five iconic looks by Rihanna, including her Pope-inspired Maison Margiela dress designed by John Galliano and her all-black Balenciaga look. The singer appeared in these breathtaking creations on the steps of the Met Gala in New York in 2018 and 2021. The exhibition illustrates how modern divas transform into astute businesswomen, thereby taking control of their image into their own hands. Rihanna's makeup brand Fenty Beauty and Dolly Parton's poseable doll are just a few examples of how divas extended their musical influence into the business world. Barbra Streisand is also featured; for instance, in 1983 she became the first woman to write, produce, direct, and star in her own film. Additionally, flyers, posters, and video clips show how revolutionary artists such as Billy Holiday and Nina Simone speak out against racism with their songs, and brought about political and social change with their voices.
Self-expression
Admire Lady Gaga's ice-blue ball gown, which she wore to the Golden Globes in 2019, and Björk's gold floral dress, both from the fashion house Valentino. With spectacular performances, outspoken music videos, and extravagant costumes, these artists show they are not afraid of transformation and continually challenge established norms. Billie Eilish's 'blue meanies' outfit designed by Stella McCartney is also on display. In this way, the young singer has grown into a global icon with her raw, honest lyrics and distinctive street style. Sir's Louis XIV-inspired look Elton John – which the singer wore on his fiftieth birthday – illustrates that male artists can also embrace the term diva. Through Lil Nas X’s lilac Versace suit and Prince’s heels, you are introduced to artists who broke established gender patterns with their performances and looks.
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