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Costume Queen Bauer: From Street Art to Library Exhibit
6 Nov
Summary
- Bauer's career began after encountering a street performer in San Francisco.
- Her costumes blend everyday objects with theatrical flair.
- The library exhibit celebrates her five-decade career in costume design.
Debra "Beaver" Bauer, a renowned costume designer, is featured in the exhibition "From Street to Stage with Beaver Bauer" at the San Francisco Public Library. Bauer's career, spanning five decades, was unexpectedly launched in the 1970s after she moved to San Francisco. Her encounter with a street performer on Polk Street led her to a five-decade career designing for notable theaters and stars.
The exhibition highlights Bauer's distinctive approach, which transforms everyday objects into theatrical garments. Examples include a robe designed to resemble a pinned butterfly and an ensemble featuring ice cream scoops. Bauer emphasizes learning "on the street of San Francisco" rather than through formal schooling, a philosophy evident in her resourceful use of materials.
"From Street to Stage with Beaver Bauer" showcases pieces like a drag ensemble made from a broccoli strainer and mechanic's funnels, alongside a gown worn by Joan Baez. The exhibition, running through April 11, also features Bauer's drawings, including sketches from her "bus queen's gazette," which capture observations of daily commuters. She views theater and drawing as her "antidote to sorrow and grief."
