Viktoria Modesta was the guest star as Christian Louboutin unveiled his Spring-Summer 2024 collection, presenting a live contemporary performance exploring the fusion between human and technology, transposing the iconic red from one-of-a-kind designs to state-of-the-art technology screens. The unique show was held at the majestic Grand Amphitheatre of La Sorbonne in Paris, the most famed university of France and one of Europe’s greatest cultural and scientific institutions.
The multi-faceted artist debuted a ‘trademark spike prosthetic’ and custom shoes, adorned with gradient crystal strass by artisans from the Christian Louboutin atelier, accompanied by screen visuals designed exclusively with her avatar.
Christian Louboutin invited Belgian – Moroccan artist Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui for the direction and choreography of his show. Known for his collaborations with some of the best theatres in the world, including Paris Opera Ballet, and internationally known performers including Lady Gaga and Beyoncé, the artist has become highly appreciated by international critics for his openness to all forms of scenic art whether cultural, religious, or ethnic. Most importantly, the show paid tribute to Christian Louboutin and Sidi larbi Cherkaoui’s shared passion for bringing together multifaceted artistic elements to create magical experiences.
To make the show even more immersive, Christian Louboutin also invited German – Persian artist Tobias Gremmler to create the show’s visual concept. A pioneer in digital art and design, the visual creative is known for developing artistic forms and languages by intersecting the virtual with reality. Highlighting the brand’siconic Red Sole, Mr. Gremmler has imagined virtual bodies emerging from moving robotic screens.
‘Dance is universal, in any culture, dance has its own special resonance. Sidi Larbi did this amazing mix of styles and culture, that is something I also cherish in my work. Incorporating technology to this show was also a fantastic exercise, Tobias worked on the iconic codes of the brand and made them evolve into virtual images in movement which were really fascinating.‘ – Christian Louboutin
Alongside Viktoria, sixteen performers interpreted a contemporary dance style that amplifies the bodies movements. Along their performance, the dancers are being juxtaposed moving screens created by Aumovis, a German leading company in autonomous LED walls, with the screens following the choreography directed by Larbi and conducted by a computing machine.
The performance was accompanied by a musical score featuring an expansion of an Arabic love poem that was chosen by Larbi and Christian Louboutin. A language that is connected to the designer’s Egyptian heritage, echoing his celebration of different cultures and elements. The soundtrack is accompanied by a live piano and Cristal Baschet musical.
