The Harris acquires Kingfisher Couture's Rose Dress

The Harris in Preston is delighted to announce the acquisition of the exquisite Rose Dress by designer Ross Griffiths, known for his label Kingfisher Couture, purchased with support from the Arts Council England/V&A Purchase Grant Fund.

This unique addition to The Harris Fashion and Textile collection represents an inspiring story of a local LGBTQIA+ designer, who is making waves in the fashion industry.

Ross Griffiths, a Preston-born designer, found inspiration in The Harris' fashion and textile displays during his visits with his mother while growing up in Chorley. After pursuing other careers, he decided to follow his passion for fashion and founded Kingfisher Couture. Self-taught and drawing from his life experiences, Ross has gained recognition for his remarkable talent and journey.

The Rose Dress symbolises growth, reflecting Ross's own transformation.

The thornless rose motif on the dress signifies rebirth and the designer's journey of overcoming addiction and homelessness, with HIV diagnosis being a turning point. The dress aligns with The Harris's commitment to inclusivity and the representation of diverse communities within its collections.

The acquisition also holds a connection to Sir Brian May from Queen, as Ross dressed Lady Anita Dobson for the This is Icon Awards Gala in February 2023 where Ross received his own accolade as winner of the 2023 Emerging Designer Award.

Ross Griffiths, Kingfisher Couture Fashion Designer said:

"I wouldn't say it's time ... because it's been time to be authentic for years, but ... I insist on being my true authentic self and nothing less with my own unapologetic personal style."

Use and Display of the Dress

The Harris, currently undergoing a £16m Heritage Lottery Funded regeneration project known as 'Harris Your Place', will display the Rose Dress in the Ground Floor Rotunda, offering visitors a glimpse into the Harris' rich fashion and textile collections while emphasising contemporary British designers with connections to Preston.

The dress will be showcased in large impact cases, rotating every 12 months to ensure we meet best practice textile conservation standards. Its floral design hints at our beloved Horrockses Fashions collection and the columnal silhouette of the dress complements The Harris building's classical appearance.

The acquisition aligns with The Harris's objectives to diversify its collection, represent local creativity, and engage with diverse communities in Preston.

Ross Griffiths has generously match-donated the purchase by offering his entire outfit worn to receive the This is Icon Emerging Designer Award in February 2023. This outfit, a flamboyant and extravagant statement, embodies his identity as a designer and personality, perfect for The Harris First Floor Balcony Gallery, which celebrates themes of identity and belonging.

Impact on the Museum and Community

This acquisition is a significant step in realising The Harris' acquisition policy and community empowerment guidelines. It provides a sense of identity and belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community and those living with HIV. The dress embodies stories of belonging and identity, preserving them for future generations.

Councillor Peter Kelly, Cabinet member for Arts and Culture at Preston City Council, said:

"The addition of the Rose Dress to the Harris' collection exemplifies our city's commitment to embracing diversity, creativity, and the arts. It serves as a symbol of inspiration for our community, highlighting the talent and resilience of LGBTQIA+ individuals. We are grateful for the V&A Purchase Grant Fund's support and look forward to celebrating this remarkable addition to our cultural heritage."

Leanne Manfredi, National Programmes Lead at Victoria and Albert Museum, added:

"The Arts Council England / V&A Purchase Grant Fund supports the purchase of a wide range of material for the permanent collections of non-nationally funded organisations in England and Wales. We are delighted that Kingfisher Couture's Rose Dress by designer Ross Griffiths has been acquired by The Harris, it will benefit audiences for years to come."

More information

About the Harris

Opened in 1893, the Grade I listed building is owned and managed by Preston City Council. Based in Preston, Lancashire, the Harris is one of the leading museums, galleries, and libraries in the region. Host to art collections of national significance, exciting activities and events for all ages and an award-winning contemporary art programme, the Harris welcomed over 380,000 visitors in 2018/2019.

We are currently delivering Harris Your Place, a major capital project made possible with support from:

• National Lottery Heritage Fund
• Towns Fund
• Preston City Council
• Lancashire County Council
• The Preston, South Ribble and Lancashire City Deal
• DCMS
• Arts Council England
• Public donations and a wide range of Trusts and Foundations.

We will re-open our magnificent Grade I Listed building in 2025 and are already working with Community Partners to deliver a programme of events and activities throughout closure and from day one of re-opening.

Arts Council England/V&A Purchase Grant Fund

• The Arts Council England / V&A Purchase Grant Fund is a government fund that helps regional museums, record offices and specialist libraries in England and Wales to acquire objects relating to the arts, literature and history.
• It was established at the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in 1881 and continues to be part of its nationwide work.
• The annual grants budget, currently £724,000, is provided by Arts Council England National Lottery Funding
• Each year, the Purchase Grant Fund considers some 150 applications and awards grants to around 100 organisations, enabling acquisitions of over £3 million to go ahead.