Photography courtesy MOCA

On now until June 5, 2011 at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles is the exhibition Rodarte: States of Matter, which showcases the fashion and costume work of designers Kate and Laura Mulleavy of Rodarte. Bursting onto the scene in 2005, the duo has seen much success since their inception, including a strong celebrity following with support from red carpet scene stealers like Natalie Portman, Reese Witherspoon and Cate Blanchett. Most recently the pair designed the ballet costumes seen in the Oscar-nominated movie Black Swan, which are included in this exhibit.

In addition to the feathered creations, pieces from their Fall 2008, Fall 2010 and Spring 2010 runway collections are on display. Initially conceived by MOCA Director Jeffrey Deitch, the show was curated by MOCA Associate Curator Rebecca Morse and designed by Alexandre de Betak, who is responsible for many of Rodarte’s spectacular runway performances. Instead of presenting the pieces on a typical human form, Morse and Rodarte opted to treat the costumes like sculptural objects. As you walk through, you’ll notice tutus suspended in the air twirling about, and sculpted mannequins suspending form the ceiling. Dominated by shades of red, black and white, the two-story space takes viewers through a well-thought out narrative. It’s a mesmerizing exhibition definitely worth taking the time to see.

Admission is free and the exhibit is open during regular museum hours. Hours of Operation: Monday: CLOSED; Tuesday-Friday: 11 am-5 pm; Saturday & Sunday: 11 am-6 pm