For Curators
Peggy Turchette, creator of the Pavlova Project,
is in search of a permanent home for the entire collection where it can be preserved and exhibited.
Two things have prompted this worldwide search: the growing interest in women’s history by both scholars and the general public, and a highly successful solo show in 2019/2020 at the Dairy Center for the Arts in Boulder, Colorado. This show, shown here in photographs, was one of the most enthusiastically received shows ever held at that nationally-recognized arts center.
Peggy Turchette has spent ten years researching Pavlova’s life and re-creating her wardrobe with needle and thread.
There are over 100 historically accurate costumes, fashions, and accessories, all in one-quarter scale. Each outfit is accompanied by a reference photograph of Anna Pavlova and a dance partner, teacher or friend wearing that same ensemble.
When viewed chronologically these costumes and couture tell Pavlova’s story in an engaging, delightful, and accessible way.
In both the website Gallery and at the Dairy exhibit, the costumes and fashions have been displayed on 16” quarter scale mannequins. Alternatively, an exhibit could be staged using dress forms or wardrobe racks, as shown here.
Professionally designed signage is included with the collection. This signage was specially commissioned to direct the viewer through the exhibit, providing historical context to the visual displays. Additional resources include original theater programs, monographs, archival photographs, and a comprehensive library of both historical and contemporary books, including several children’s books. A comprehensive Gallery Guide prepared by Peggy Turchette gives additional in-depth information about each outfit and its place in Pavlova’s life on and off the stage.
The Pavlova Project’s beautifully constructed miniature garments, quality display materials, and extensive educational resources combine to make it the only physical collection anywhere in the world that tells Anna Pavlova’s story in its entirety.
Anna Pavlova believed in the power of dance to unite a world divided by negative stereotypes of culture, race, and nationality. The Pavlova Project was created to honor that same belief, for that same world still in need of unity. It is a tribute to a woman who transcended her own time; not only through her artistic expression but through her spirit of generosity, acceptance, and respect towards all peoples. Those qualities are as relevant today as they were in Pavlova’s time. The Pavlova Project hopes to introduce a new audience to this exceptional woman whose very life embodied those ideals.
Please contact Peggy Turchette for more information or to express interest in acquiring the Pavlova Project for your institution. Thank you.
The Pavlova Project thanks the following sponsors
