Her first ever solo engagement as a royal was made today, as Meghan attended the opening of ‘Oceania’ today at the Royal Academy of Arts.
The Royal Academy’s Oceania exhibit, which will run from September 29 until December 10 in London, will “bring together around 200 exceptional works from public collections worldwide, and span over 500 years. The exhibition draws from rich historic ethnographic collections dating from the 18th century to the present, and includes seminal works produced by contemporary artists exploring history, identity, and climate change.”
Meghan was welcomed greeted by representatives upon arrival.
Inside the academy Meghan met curators, artists and descendants linked to the works displayed
And viewed a performance by a Māori cultural group
During the visit Meghan was introduced to a Māori guest, which greeted Meghan by rubbing his nose against hers – a ‘hongi’ a traditional greeting. Meghan greeted several hosts that way, including the including New Zealand’s high commissioner Sir Jerry Mateparae. Sarah Hudson who is an artist said: “We thought it might be a nice bit of practice before she comes to the Pacific next month and it’s nice to be able to practice something that’s customary for us.
“She’s honoring our heritage.
Meghan was shown around and got to see many of the 200 artifacts on display and told New Zealand video artist Lisa Reihani “It’s so special. It’s spectacular.”
Much of the artwork Meghan saw was from New Zealand, Fiji, the Kingdom of Tonga and Australia — all of which she and Harry will visit next month. Meghan added it was a perfect familiarization to the region she and Harry will be visiting next month. “It’s a great introduction to the sights and sounds of that part of the world,” she added.
800 people attended the event alongside Meghan
A video from the night
Before leaving Meghan was gifted a bouquet Rima and Kotai, whose father was involved in the exhibition.
Our duchess dressed to impress for her first solo royal engagement!
I´m not surprised she turned to a label she knows and trusts well… and who could she trust more than the design house behind her iconic wedding gown? Givenchy, of course.
The dress Meghan wore was a bespoke version of the Black Velvet-Appliquéd Midi Dress with pleated sheer sleeves
Meghan looked incredibly chic in the black midi dress, featuring sheer sleeves with velvet cuffs, along with a velvet front panel, flattering waist-belt, plus a front split that added eye-catching appeal.
She off course added her favourite Aquazzura ‘Deneuve’ pumps
And caried a clutch bag also by Givenchy
She completed her look with her Birks Snowstorm Diamond Earrings.
