Our Gwendolynne creation for Kate Miller Heidke’s Eurovision performance is showcased in this incredible exhibition.
DIVA is a groundbreaking exhibition celebrating some of history’s most provocative and powerful performers. The exhibition presents more than 250 objects, including 60 spectacular costumes, jewellery, photography, art, and music, drawn from the V&A’s Collection, Arts Centre Melbourne’s Australian Performing Arts Collection, and loaned treasures from across the world. Discover the triumphs and transformations of the diva, from 19th-century opera goddesses and silent film stars to Golden Age Hollywood legends and today’s global megastars and pop icons.
The exhibition features a dazzling roll call of legends such as Maria Callas, Judy Garland, Joan Crawford, Dame Nellie Melba, Grace Jones, Cher, Prince, Tina Turner, Elton John, Madonna, Adele, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Whitney Houston, P!nk, Bjork, Billie Eilish and more.
DIVA also showcases Australia’s significant contributions to the stage, including Dame Joan Sutherland, Peter Allen, Marcia Hines, Kylie Minogue, Olivia Newton-John, Cate Blanchett, Kate Miller-Heidke, Chrissy Amphlett, Dame Edna Everage, Jessica Mauboy and Amy Taylor (Amyl and the Sniffers).
From the stadium tour to the Met Gala, DIVA brings the magic of pop culture’s biggest moments to life. Discover iconic garments by legendary designers such as Bob Mackie, Valentino, Maison Margiela, Vivienne Westwood, Christian Dior and more – up close and in stunning detail. From exquisite beading, feathers, diamonds and jewels to personal objects, song sheets and handwritten lyrics, delve into this exhibition of art and attitude, vision and voice. Experience an immersive soundscape designed by world-leading sound designer Gareth Fry, featuring hits and hooks from DIVA’s biggest stars.
Charting the origin and rise of the diva through the ages – from creative subversion to public backlash and reign in their own times – DIVA takes you behind the headlines to reveal the essence and artistry of these show stopping performers and agents of change, in all their glory.
The DIVA exhibition at Arts Centre Melbourne's Australian Museum of Performing Arts featured Kate Miller-Heidke’s glittering 2019 "Zero Gravity" Eurovision outfit, which included an intricately designed bodice crafted under a tight deadline by Melbourne couturier Gwendolynne Burkin.
The Exhibition Context
Celebrated the power, creativity, and impact of iconic performers across opera, stage, and pop culture.
Highlighted homegrown Australian talent alongside global icons like Kylie Minogue, Cher, and Rihanna.
Displayed over 250 items, exploring how artists shaped self-determined and divine public personas.
The Eurovision Outfit
The Bodice: Designed by Fitzroy-based Gwendolynne Burkin, featuring delicate, high-detail craftsmanship.
The Origin: Worn during Miller-Heidke's winning performance at Australia Decides before heading to the international Eurovision stage in Tel Aviv.
The Look: Part of the gravity-defying staging where Miller-Heidke sang atop a swaying pole, pairing the custom bodice with a billowing skirt and a spiked silver crown.