An illustrated exploration of the acclaimed performance dedicated to the costumes of Pier Paolo Pasolini's films, conceived by Olivier Saillard and interpreted by Tilda Swinton.
Embodying Pasolini documents the extraordinary performance curated by Olivier Saillard and poetically brought to life by Tilda Swinton. Serving as part fashion object and part catalogue, this publication is the sole record of Swinton's critically acclaimed sold-out performance-that was by its very nature an ephemeral artwork-but also serves as a survey of the impressive costumes designed by Danilo Donati for Pier Paolo Pasolini's films. From movies including The Gospel According to Matthew, The Hawks and the Sparrows, Oedipus Rex, Porcile, The Decameron, The Canterbury Tales, and Arabian Nights to Salo, or the 120 Days of Sodom, their costumes-garments, coats, and hats-retrace Pasolini's entire cinematography, which continues to fascinate audiences almost half a century after the director's passing. The camera of German photographer Ruediger Glatz takes readers both on stage and behind the scenes of the performance, and directs their gaze to details and close-ups, intensifying the beauty and mystery of the moment. Written by Swinton and Saillard, the texts offer an exclusive perspective into the creation and realization of the performance. A passionate ode to cinematic costume design and fashion, Embodying Pasolini elevates couture to a veritable art form.