The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City announced that it has decided not to move forward with an exhibition honoring British designer John Galliano. The decision comes in response to growing criticism surrounding Galliano’s past remarks that have been condemned as anti-Jewish and anti-Asian. Galliano’s work had been slated to be part of the Costume Institute spring show, inaugurated by the Met Gala each May.
Museum director Max Hollein stated that the decision to cancel the exhibition was made in agreement with Galliano. This comes amid increasing anger over Galliano’s history of discriminatory comments. In 2011, a French court convicted Galliano of antisemitic abuse after an incident in a Paris cafe. He attributed his behavior at the time to substance abuse issues, including addictions to alcohol, barbiturates, and sleeping pills. Despite this, another video emerged during the trial showing Galliano expressing admiration for Adolf Hitler, further sparking outrage.
The Met is one of New York City’s most treasured and visible cultural institutions.
Galliano was dismissed from Dior, where he had worked since the mid-90s, just ahead of Paris Fashion Week in 2011. A court ordered him to pay a fine. Despite the controversies, he later worked as a designer “in residence” at Oscar de la Renta and as creative director for Maison Margiela, before planning a collaboration with Zara in 2024.
New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin requested the Met to reconsider the exhibition after its announcement. She criticized the decision, referencing Galliano’s past conviction and his offensive remarks recorded on video. Menin also cited a new allegation from fashion publicist Lauren London, accusing Galliano of a derogatory incident involving her friend in 2019. Galliano expressed remorse over his past actions, emphasizing that true atonement requires ongoing personal growth and renewal.
Andrew Bolton, curator at The Met’s Costume Institute, expressed support for the exhibition’s cancellation, acknowledging the pain associated with it. Anna Wintour, the Met Gala’s longtime chair, also endorsed the decision, describing Galliano’s choice to withdraw as courageous.
Julie Menin praised the decision to cancel the exhibit, highlighting her personal connection as the daughter of a Holocaust survivor and as the first Jewish speaker of the New York City Council. She emphasized her commitment to advocating for the Jewish community.