When discussing camp, it is important to understand the incredibly complex definition of the word. Part of it requires, a lack of intention of being “camp,” meaning it must be natural and empathetic, not artificial or sympathetic. The Met Gala theme of being camp fulfilled the latter or those two situations. For the artificial side of the equation, the idea of being “camp” was entirely intentional and purposeful, not for the purpose behind being camp — the self fulfillment and self expression of it all — but for the twisted version of grotesque disembodiment of what being camp is. These incredibly wealthy people paraded around in (majorly queer) self-expressionist culture that represented being who they were, not what expensive brands of Gucci and Marc Jacobs tried to make them. The second part of the equation is being “sympathetic,” which at first glance seems to be a positive word, not one that is used negatively. In my personal observations and opinions, sympathy is for people who are unable to personally relate to a subject on a deep level, but find a vague understanding of it. There is a separation, while being empathetic is the opposite. There is closeness and the truth is bare. That is what part of being camp is — it is being laid bare in a truly dramatic and ostentatious way to be self-expressive and to scream to the world that this is me. The Met Gala was unable to meet this equation.
3 thoughts on “Was The Met Gala “Camp” Actually Camp?”
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I remember watching the livestream of the Met Gala for 2019 and listening to these celebrities confuse “camp” with backpacking and camping supplies and I was completely taken aback.
In one of our class discussion, we talked about the difference between “camp” and “campy.” I believe that the Met Gala was less so “camp” and more so “campy” through the extravagant and overdone fashion that it exhibited. I thought it was interesting how you described “camp” as an equation, like meeting a criteria of sorts. I think because “camp” itself is so complex, we each have our own idea and interpretation of it.
Like… literally what was Kim K’s look… that’s not camp. It’s sexy but not camp at all. Money can’t buy you an understanding of queer language. Cardi B, Laverne Cox, Winnie Harlow, Janelle Monae, Bella Hadid, and Lady Gaga’s looks, definitely camp. Hot take but I feel like only queer people can really pull off camp.
The Met Gala certainly feels like a strange case. Although there are always different approaches to themes, it to some extent feels like an excuse to be gaudy/outlandish for no apparent or understandable reason (ex: Katy Perry burger dress). With Angels in America, it feels like the camp or artistic elements of the story represent an actual idea (whether it be the angels being presented more sexually or the presence of orgasms in the story, as sexual themes are a core part of the play). I feel as if for something to be “camp,” it must be authentic and meaningful.