Current Exhibitions

Katharine Hepburn (May 12, 1907-June 29, 2003) left the New York stage for Hollywood in 1932. Compared to theatre, movies offered an affordable form of escapism from the Depression. Movies also had a greater influence on culture, as millions of Americans crowded theaters. Costume designers delighted audiences by creating unique and glamorous costumes worn by stars like Katharine Hepburn. The costumes were fashionable, contemporary garments that blurred the line between costume and fashion, and women in audiences wanted to emulate the styles they saw.

"Dazzling Day and Night" celebrates the creative legacy of the KSU Museum’s founders, Shannon Rodgers and Jerry Silverman. In 1959 Silverman and Shannon established their own company, Jerry Silverman, Inc. which became one the most successful manufacturers of women's better dresses in the industry through the 1960s and 1970s. Their showroom on 7thAvenue in New York City was a favorite of clients and buyers for the timeliness of the ever-changing collections and the hospitality of the designer, Rodgers, and businessman, Silverman.

Palmer and Mull Galleries | Sara Hume, Curator The “Fashion Timeline” showcases the Kent State University Museum’s world-class collection of historic fashions. Encompassing over two centuries of fashion history, this exhibition is designed to show the evolution of styles and silhouettes while contextualizing the pieces with relevant political, technological and cultural developments. While the display is a permanent feature at the museum, the individual pieces are rotated frequently so there is always something new to see!