Pavlova Project

The Pavlova Project

The Pavlova Project illustrates the life of the legendary Russian Ballerina Anna Pavlova (1881-1931) through the costumes and fashions that she wore. Meticulously reconstructed in one-quarter scale by dressmaker Peggy Turchette, these miniature masterpieces are displayed on 16-inch mannequins in an exhibit that presents a stunning visual biography of her life.

The exhibit will take you on a journey — from penniless child to dance student in St. Petersburg, Russia, and on to international stardom — with more than 75 dressed mannequins. Each recreated costume tells one small part of Pavlova’s story and the people who were part of her world — her teachers, dance partners, choreographers, and famous friends.

Researched with historical acumen and exquisitely constructed, these luminous costumes are paired with archival photographs and related biographical information. Nowhere else is there such a unique and complete retrospective of Anna Pavlova.

The written word, grainy black and white photographs, and flickering snippets of film can never adequately tell this tale of artistry, movement, and grace. As you experience the exhibit on this website or in a gallery, you will come to know Anna Pavlova in a new, vivid, and thoroughly enchanting way.

We’d love to hear from you!  Please send us your comments or questions about The Pavlova Project, and tell us what else you’d like to know about Anna Pavlova.