Brooklyn College Associate Professor of Art Christopher Richards is being celebrated by the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) through a major new exhibition inspired by his scholarship on African and global fashion. The exhibition, “Art X Fashion” (February 18–April 19, 2026) explores the dynamic relationship between fashion and fine art through more than 140 objects from MFIT’s collection. Curated by Elizabeth Way, the exhibition examines the enduring question, “Is fashion art?” In his writing, Richards argues that fashion qualifies as art when it demonstrates innovation, craftsmanship, and cultural impact. Garments by designers from Charles Frederick Worth to Iris van Herpen illustrate these qualities. The show also highlights collaborations between artists and designers, and how each discipline inspires the other, revealing fashion and art as powerful, parallel forces shaping culture and creativity. The Museum at FIT is widely regarded as one of the premier fashion museums in the world, making this recognition especially significant. “It’s a tremendous honor,” Richards said. “The Museum at FIT is an internationally respected institution, and to see my work inform an exhibition at that level is both humbling and deeply gratifying.” In conjunction with the exhibition, a symposium is scheduled for March 27, where Richards will participate in a scholarly conversation related to the themes of the show. In addition to this recognition, Richards is also preparing for the third and final chapter of his own exhibition project, Ghanaian Fashion, at the Harn Museum of Art. The exhibition will open in May. Richards’ work continues to shape contemporary conversations about global fashion, art, and cultural production, bringing international perspectives into academic and museum spaces alike. For more information about the Museum at FIT exhibition and related events, please go here
