The Gijs + Emmy Spectacle

Gijs Bakker and Emmy van Leersum are internationally recognized as pioneers in their field of modern jewellery design. They were the first to make minimal jewellery out of unorthodox materials, such as aluminium and Plexiglas. The pair set off a real revolution in jewellery design in the 1960s. In this book, the focus is on the early, collective work of the artist duo (1967-1972). This work does not limit itself to jewellery, but also moves into the realms of fashion, design and art.
On 12 May 1967, Gijs and Emmy presented their vision in a spectacular show in the Stedelijk Museum. This show, with its futuristic clothing and large aluminium neck bands, styling of the models, spotlights and electronic music, placed them in the vanguard of modern youth culture in one fell swoop. Author Marjan Boot and filmmaker Lex Reitsma have reconstructed this sensational fashion show from 1967, which meant the international breakthrough for Gijs and Emmy.