The flashbulbs popped and the world watched as Lalisa Manoban, globally renowned superstar LISA, graced the Met Gala 2025 steps. This year, she captivated onlookers in an impeccably tailored creation by Louis Vuitton, guided by the visionary hand of Men’s Creative Director Pharrell Williams. Williams, himself a multi-talented Black artist who consistently bridges cultural gaps through music and fashion, embraced the gala’s theme: “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” This poignant theme aimed to celebrate the rich tapestry and aesthetic beauty woven through African diaspora style, and LISA delivered a masterful interpretation.
But beyond the silhouette and the LV monogram, a deeper story unfolded—a subtle yet powerful detail woven directly into the fabric. Embedded within LISA’s ensemble was intricate “embroidery” featuring the artwork of Henry Taylor, an influential Black artist whose work has long resonated with and inspired Pharrell. This wasn’t just fashion; it was a conversation between art forms and cultural narratives.
Who is Henry Taylor? For those unfamiliar, Taylor is a celebrated American painter known for his deeply human portraits. His subjects are often drawn from his immediate world – friends, family members, people experiencing homelessness, alongside significant social and historical figures. His artistic journey notably began after a decade working as a psychiatric technician at Camarillo State Mental Hospital, an experience that undoubtedly informed his empathetic gaze before he formally pursued art education.
Taylor’s distinctive style marries raw realism with an impressionistic sensibility, vividly capturing the nuances of the African-American experience through his unique, personal lens. His powerful narratives have earned him international acclaim.
His works have graced the hallowed halls of world-class institutions like MoMA, the Whitney Museum of American Art, and the Hammer Museum. Taylor is also the recipient of the prestigious Robert De Niro, Sr. Prize, recognizing his significant contributions to painting.
The connection between Henry Taylor and Pharrell Williams runs deep, adding layers of significance to LISA’s Met Gala moment. Taylor famously painted the portrait of Pharrell for the cover of Vogue’s special “The Met Issue.” Furthermore, his distinctive artistic motifs were translated into embroidered patterns on garments and accessories for Pharrell’s debut show with Louis Vuitton.
By incorporating Henry Taylor’s art into LISA’s Met Gala 2025 attire, Pharrell and Louis Vuitton didn’t just dress a global icon; they amplified a vital voice in contemporary Black art, seamlessly blending high fashion with profound cultural homage, perfectly embodying the spirit of “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.” LISA, once again, proved her ability to carry not just stunning garments, but meaningful stories.
