If Persol had one goal in mind for Magnificent Obsessions, an exhibition to to commemorate the Italian eyewear magnate’s longstanding relationship with painstakingly- crafted film, it was go big or go home. This was evident from the get-go when ascending to Centre 548’s 4th floor in a Warholian-era industrial lift for the exhibit’s opening celebration. A set of double doors opened to reveal a gallery space filled with cinematic memorabilia and a crowd that was half celebrity, half society.

Curated by the celebrated Michael Connor, the exhibit is the initial offering in a series three installments and is open to the public starting today through Sunday in West Chelsea. There you’ll find footage of The Darjeeling Limited’s Adrien Brody racing through train cars in custom frames, Oscar-winning costumes from Marie Antoinette, and perhaps most prolific—scenes from Ghandi with its transformative star and honoree, Ben Kingsley offering exclusive commentary. “I think its great to join in a collection of personal creation,” he said of the exhibit.

Read more →