AN ARAN JUMPER is to feature in a major new exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York after it was chosen as one of the 111 most iconic fashion garments and accessories over the last century.
The jumper, which has been loaned by the National Museum of Ireland at Turlough Park, Castlebar, Mayo, will be displayed at the US museum this month as part of its ‘Is Fashion Modern?’ event.
The jumper will feature alongside an example of the biker jacket from the 1950s, a Wonderbra, a Birkin bag and a pair of Levi’s 501 jeans from the 1940s.
According to MoMA, the 111 items explored in the exhibition were selected because they have had a “profound impact on the world over the last century”.
The Aran jumper which is to go on display is a cream, knitted piece from 1940 and made from a heavy, scoured wool.
Manager of the National Museum of Ireland, Tony Candon, said he was delighted that the jumper was being included.
He said: “Aran sweaters are a powerful expression of the creativity of the Irish folk craft tradition and we are very happy that this is being recognised through inclusion in this important exhibition.
“Through their association with the Irish folk singers, the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem, they achieved huge international popularity and were worn by celebrities such as Steve McQueen and Grace Kelly. Aran sweaters continue to be popular today though now also made in materials other than just wool and are also machine-knit as well as hand-knit.”
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