The Couture Pattern Museum, in conjunction with the University Club of Santa Barbara, announces an exclusive cultural event for Santa Barbara, “Balenciaga Through the Lens of Tom Kublin,” featuring Maria Kublin, daughter of the acclaimed fashion photographer, Tom Kublin. This special evening, which will be Maria Kublin’s first North American appearance, will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 12, from 5-6 p.m., followed by a prix fixe dinner at the University Club of Santa Barbara.
This event celebrates the release of Maria Kublin’s new book, “Balenciaga – Kublin: A Fashion Record,” published by Thames and Hudson, a leading publisher of art and fashion books. Known as “The Master” of haute couture, Cristóbal Balenciaga was one of the most innovative and influential fashion designers of the last century. His exquisite craftsmanship and pioneering use of fabrics revolutionized the female silhouette, setting the tone for modern fashion. The book showcases Balenciaga’s work during the golden age of couture—arguably the most creative period of his career—when he dressed some of the most renowned women of the age and earned reverence from contemporaries like Christian Dior and Coco Chanel. This event offers a rare opportunity for the Santa Barbara community to connect with an inspiring chapter of fashion history.
Santa Barbara, with its deep Spanish roots, is the ideal place to celebrate Cristóbal Balenciaga, a designer profoundly inspired by his homeland’s art and culture. Drawing from the dramatic forms and rich colors of Velázquez and Goya, as well as the elegance of sacred vestments and court attire, Balenciaga’s creations represent a beautiful blend of history and fashion. This event offers our community a unique opportunity to connect with the legacy of Spain’s most iconic designer.
Tom Kublin, known for his groundbreaking work in fashion photography during the 1950s and 1960s, captured the essence of Balenciaga couture in over 140 stunning images and film stills. His work has been featured in major museum exhibitions, including the Victoria and Albert Museum’s “Balenciaga: Shaping Fashion” in London, the “Balenciaga: Spanish Master” exhibition curated by Hamish Bowles at the Queen Sofía Spanish Institute in New York, and a blockbuster retrospective at the Cristóbal Balenciaga Museum in Spain in 2022. These exhibitions have celebrated Kublin’s innovative vision and lasting impact on fashion photography.
During the presentation, Maria Kublin will share insights into her father’s career, including his collaborations with top models like Katinka Bleeker, who is Maria’s mother. The presentation will explore the unique relationship between Kublin and Balenciaga, as well as his work photographing American icons such as Elizabeth Taylor and Lee Radziwill.
VIP Tickets for this exclusive evening include a prix fixe dinner, a signed copy of the newly released book “Balenciaga – Kublin: A Fashion Record,” a wine, cheese, and charcuterie reception, and a presentation by Maria Kublin.
Cara Austine-Rademaker, founder of the Couture Pattern Museum, shares, “This event is very close to our hearts because it speaks to our commitment to preserving the art and craftsmanship of haute couture. Balenciaga, with his incredible skill and dedication, truly set the standard for what couture could be. His influence touched so many, including designers like Hubert de Givenchy, André Courrèges, Emanuel Ungaro, and Ralph Rucci—whose patterns we have curated and preserved in the archives. We’re delighted to bring our community together to celebrate his legacy through the eyes of Tom Kublin, who captured Balenciaga’s vision like no one else.”
Ticket Information:
- VIP Experience: $350 (includes dinner, wine, signed copy of the book, and exclusive perks)
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to be part of fashion history—limited tickets are available, so reserve your spot today! For more information and to purchase tickets, visit couturepatternmuseum.com/events or call 805-303-4775. For press inquiries, please email at: contact@couturepatternmuseum.com.