Making it’s American debut, Iris van Herpen Brooklyn Talks drew a sold-out crowd on May 14, 2026. Moreover, the artistic and creative energy of the Brooklyn Museum provided the perfect backdrop for this exclusive members’ experience. Hosted by American Express Platinum® and Centurion®, these exclusive member events are curated in partnership.
Sculpting the Senses is a “groundbreaking intersection of fashion, science, and technology; presented in the iconic haute couture collections by Dutch fashion designer Iris van Herpen.” Additionally, every invited member received a catalogue signed by van Herpen, in addition to premium reserved seats to Iris van Herpen Brooklyn talks with Vanessa Friedman moderating.
Platinum Event: Iris van Herpen Brooklyn Talks
Some of the members reflected van Herpen’s aesthetic through layered fabrics, sculptural shapes, and petal-inspired details. The event drew the affluent, stylish, and highly engaged audience to the official Brooklyn Talks event for van Herpen. The private reception for members included cocktails and light bites. Iris van Herpen and award-winning Senior Curator of Fashion and Material Culture, Matthew Yokobosky, joined members for remarks.
Iris van Herpen spoke softly and thoughtfully. She allowed her work to remain the focus. van Herpen discussed her use of 4D printing, scientific collaboration, and experimental techniques. Her designs move beyond traditional fashion. Many pieces require direct construction onto the body instead of simple wearability.
The conversation focused heavily on creativity and process, as van Herpen described creativity as fragile and explained why she protects it carefully. Further, she avoids overly commercial projects and chooses collabourations selectively. Because she believes many creatives loose direction through outside influence.
Additionally, van Herpen discussed her personal routine and creative discipline. She practices transcendental meditation and trusts intuition during the design process; enjoys spending time walking in nature with her partner outside the city and; often reserves evenings and weekends for deeper creative work.
Technology and science continue to shape her work. van Herpern collaborates with scientists, museums, and organisations connected to space exploration. She hoped her future collaborations with NASA will eventually send a creation into space.
Despite her global success, van Herpen approaches creativity slowly and intentionally. Some experimental techniques require three or four years of development. Her thoughtful approach felt refreshing in a culture focused on speed and constant production.
Iris van Herpen‘s designs worn by Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, Scarlett Johansson, and Jennifer Lopez, among other notables; and featured on red carpets, music videos and recently at the 2026 Met Gala.
Hospitality Notes: Brooklyn Talks
American Express Platinum Card® and Centurion® members had access to the Exhibit throughout the evening. The reception was a private affair that offered signature cocktails, champagne, wine and tray passed hors d’oeuvres.
The “lite bites” that made the rounds included, but not limited to Radish with Smoked Tofu, Goat Cheese bon bon, Skirt Steak on Crisp and Miso Glazed black Bass. These delicious edible morsels were the perfect portion size, infused with flavour and texture.
Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses exhibits through December 6, 2026 at the Brooklyn Museum.