Aimee Mullins, a double amputee, collaborated with Lee McQueen to create a pair of prosthetic legs that were both beautiful and inspiring. Mullins graced the cover of the September 1998 issue of Vogue and walked the runway in McQueen’s Spring Summer 1999 ‘No. 13’ show wearing the prosthetic legs. The legs have been displayed in museums such as The V&A and The Met. Mullins believes that the prosthetic legs helped change the conversation around medical devices, making them objects of art and beauty rather than symbols of loss.
The Sarabande Foundation, established by McQueen in 2006, provides opportunities for aspiring artists and designers. The foundation offers scholarships, mentoring, and subsidized studio space. The foundation has helped over 200 individuals with over £1.5 million in support.
The Sarabande Foundation’s ‘What Now?’ initiative was held at The Standard, East Village, and brought together 90 industry professionals with 250 students and graduates to offer them career advice. The foundation’s program director, Trino Verkade, said that the foundation looks for individuals who are creative and passionate about their work.
The dinner featured tablescapes based on the work of artist George Richardson, and guests enjoyed a family-style feast. Guests took home limited-edition plates featuring drawings by McQueen, Daniel Roseberry, Tim Burton, Sir Ridley Scott, Jake Chapman, and Francesca Amfitheatrof.
The raffle included prizes such as a private tour of the new Costume Institute exhibit with Andrew Bolton and original artwork by Richardson. One lucky guest also won a marmite and cheese toastie, which was McQueen’s favorite food.
