Zandra Rhodes exhibition
De Montfort University (DMU) has launched Zandra Rhodes: Archive Unfolded. It showcases thousands of items from Dame Zandra Rhodes’ 1964–2025 archive, donated following her 2023 honorary doctorate. The gift, managed via the Zandra Rhodes Foundation (est. 2020), aims to use the collection as a learning resource. Rhodes said: “I formed the foundation when I realised my archive could do more than sit in storage. After seeing DMU’s facilities, I wanted to inspire future creative minds.”
Across two DMU sites
The exhibition spans two DMU Leicester sites. At Leicester Gallery, Zandra Rhodes: Design Collaborations, showcases licensing deals with IKEA, Topshop and Marks & Spencer. Also, a press timeline from a 1970 US Vogue feature to a 2021 Rankin HUNGER cover. A process table, hanging silk screens and atrium banners illustrate her methods. Finally, at DMU Museum, the 1983 Mediæval Collection is traced from research to runway within a fourteenth-century church ruin. Student responses across campus reflect the archive’s teaching use.
Inspiring quotes
Carolyn Hardarker, Head of the School of Design Innovation, said: “It is a great privilege to collaborate with Dame Zandra and her team on the forthcoming exhibition, which will celebrate this remarkable resource.”
Katherine Short, Head of De Montfort Special Collections, said the archive is fully integrated into art, fashion and design teaching: “Zandra’s work has vibrant energy; handling original sketches from concept to garment is inspiring.”
Professor Katie Normington, DMU Vice-Chancellor, said the university is honoured to host the collection: “It inspires students and visitors; her trust confirms our world-leading fashion education.”
Zandra Rhodes: Archive Unfolded is free to the public, with events, workshops and school tours.
Visitor information
Leicester Gallery, Vijay Patel Building, Mill Lane, Leicester LE2 7PT
Mon–Fri 10am–5pm, Sat 12pm–5pm until January 16, 2027.
DMU Museum, Hawthorn Building, Lower Ground 00.34, The Newarke, Leicester LE2 7DR
Wed–Fri 12pm–4pm; other times by email: museum@dmu.ac.uk
Methodist Matters – Oct 2026
