Aside from Donald Judd there is one other iconic name that the town of Marfa conjures up. Prada Marfa in all of its roadside beauty is a pop land art project conceived by the artists Elmgreen & Dragset. On the open road of US 90 this full scale replica of a Prada boutique is a paradoxical misplaced gem that appears out of nowhere like a mirage even to those who are expecting it. Behind the glass windows of this forever closed “store” are twenty shoes (rights only, to discourage theft) and six bags (without bottoms) all generously provided by Miuccia Prada herself from the fall/winter 2005 collection. Although Prada donated the goods and permitted the use of its logo it is important to note that Prada Marfa has no commercial link to the brand itself and is a non-profit project supported entirely by funds from foundations and individuals. The antithesis of commercialism Prada Marfa is a critique on the luxury goods industry, a store in the middle of seemingly nowhere. Ironically Prada Marfa is now in danger for all that it does not represent. After eight years roadside, the installation has been classified as an “illegal outdoor advertising sign” by the Texas Department of Transportation. Although the department has not yet decided what action it will take, it would be crushing for this brilliant icon to be no longer. Along for the ride are my ivory fringed crepe top by Jason Wu and leather pants by Current/Elliot. In my own play on interpretations this is not your typical fringe, it is sequin fringe! Sometimes what you see is not what it seems, or is it, go see for yourself and don’t forget to show your support, Save Prada Marfa.
Jason Wu top, Current/Elliot leather pants, Alexander Wang heels
US 90, Elmgreen & Dragset, Prada Marfa
Photographs by Wynn Myers