Twinkle, Twinkle, Dazzling Stars

From Vienna to Shanghai, Swarovski presents its sensational past, present and future with archival and contemporary jewellery and fashion in its Masters of Light' exhibition.

- Brandon Chia

Bubbly—that was the only way to describe the atmosphere surrounding Shanghai’s Museum of Contemporary Art on that mid-September evening, when Swarovski celebrated the global premiere of its “Masters of Light” exhibition that ran till 9 October.

Rows of candy-coloured crystal necklaces, cascading earrings and countless rings of all shapes and sizes adorned eager guests who filled the museum’s courtyard, all psyched to be part of the brand’s first major exhibition.

The museum was split into different chambers, each representing a facet of Swarovski’s 128-year heritage while casting light on the brand’s creative prowess and savoir-faire through fashion and pop culture.

“Every piece in the exhibition has craftsmanship at its core and celebrates how Swarovski brings light and joy to the world through its collaborations with artists, designers, and other creative talents,” said creative director Giovanna Engelbert.

The immersive journey opened with pieces such as Swarovski’s revolutionary crystal-cutting machines that upended the jewellery industry and prop jewellery from the film Gentlemen Prefer Blondes starring Marilyn Monroe.

But it was the first dress ever made with Swarovski crystals by couturier Charles Worth in the early 20th century that made heads turn.