Es Devlin

Es Devlin's outstanding works have challenged standard ideas about stagecraft and its role in society. Straddling the fields of art, opera, dance, theatre, fashion and music, her practice has helped engender innovative forms of kinetic sculpture. Her designs have filled millions of people with wonder: from the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympics ceremonies, to astonishing set designs for touring superstars, as well as opera and ballet productions in Europe's major cities. Es Devlin: Suspension of Disbelief examines the changing nature and scale of Devlin's work - from solitary, contemplative pieces to collective, stadium-sized experiences - through extensive process work (sketches, behind-the-scenes photographs, etc.) in order to highlight and celebrate the unique breadth of her output. More than 60 projects are featured from across the globe, finishing with her design for the UK Pavilion at Dubai Expo in 2021. In-depth project case studies and commentaries by Andrea Lipps are interleaved with thematic texts and interviews with those who have worked with Devlin in the worlds of theatre, opera, architecture, pop music, design and art, including stellar names such as Sam Mendes, Bjarke Ingels, Anna Wintour and Benedict Cumberbatch. Es Devlin: Suspension of Disbelief is both a monograph on an incomparable talent whose work connects with popular audiences, and a true source of inspiration for design professionals and students.