WHEELING — Top Hats. Boaters. Fedoras. Porkpies. Panamas. Newsboys. Cloches. Cartwheels. Pill boxes. Turbans. Upsweeps and Sidesweeps.

These are some of the hat styles that continue to top the heads of men and women in the modern Western World and those that every commercial milliner knows how to make. However, the world of theatrical millinery exists in a different universe.

The latest exhibit at Oglebay Institute’s Stifel Fine Arts Center immerses viewers into the imaginative world of theatrical millinery through an exquisite collection of hats, headdresses, masks, jewelry and armor straight from the stages of Broadway.

Working out of his New York City shop, master craftsman Rodney Gordon has created pieces for hundreds of shows on Broadway, film and television throughout his 40-year career as one of show business’ top milliners. A rare and stunning exhibit of his work is on display at the Stifel Fine Arts Center through June 23.

Gordon’s work has been featured in Broadway productions of Hamilton, Kinky Boots, Wicked, The Producers, Alladin, A Chorus Line, Book of Mormon, The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Titanic, Miss Saigon, Cats, Phantom of the Opera, The Importance of Being Earnest, and many, many more. Film and television projects have included Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, American Gangster, The Legend of Bagger Vance, and Saturday Night Live. He also creates pieces for numerous opera companies, ballet companies and regional theater companies.

“People will enjoy seeing the work of a master craftsman and artisan. Also, it is really fun to be able to stand face-to-face with iconic pieces like the Phantom’s mask from Phantom of the Opera and the witch’s hat from Wicked,” OI curator of exhibitions Michael McKowen said.

Gordon uses his wild imagination for design and skillful craftsmanship to expertly interpret and fulfill the costume designer’s vision for each project through his original millinery creations.

“Rodney is operating at the highest level in a medium that utilizes all of the elements of design to create an aesthetically stimulating work of art that must also be functional and withstand the rigors and demands of years of performances.”

As a student and graduate of New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, McKowen had the pleasure of working with Gordon in his shop. “The experience was invaluable. Not only is he the absolute best at what he does, he is an incredible teacher and human being. ”

McKowen said millinery is often not seen as an art form, but it should be. “From designing and drawing the shapes and patterns to material selection and the actual physical process of making the pieces, millinery is very much a 3D art form.”

In theatrical millinery, function is just as important as form. Many variables must be considered when creating a piece for the stage or screen. A theatrical accessory must fit its wearer with absolute precision. It is not possible for an actor to fuss with an ill-fitting hat during a performance, unless, of course, that’s part of the act. Likewise, pieces can’t cause problems for lighting and sound designers or hinder choreography. They must also be made to last through many performances. Also, each piece must have the same impact on all audience members, regardless of their vantage point whether it is from the front row or the “nosebleed” section.

Gordon is known in the business for not only his creative vision and master craftsmanship but also his ability to create non-traditional pieces from unusual materials and made-up techniques.

“After all, if someone requests a hat with a flower that blooms onstage, or one that changes from black to white to red in full view of the audience, or even one that represents the desert sands and includes a translucent camel caravan and a fiery sun, you can be sure you won’t find patterns for those online,” Gordon explained.

McKowen said it is often the hat that identifies the character and the character’s role in the story. “It is hard to imagine Indiana Jones or Mary Poppins or Captain Jack Sparrow without their signature headpiece.”

McKowen said this exhibit not only introduces viewers to a world they may be unfamiliar with but also “gives them a rare insider’s glimpse behind the curtain and how it works.”

Rodney Gordon’s imaginative world of hats and masks is on display through June 23. The exhibit is part of the OI’s season of changing art exhibits, sponsored by United Bank. It can be viewed free of charge Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Evening hours are dependent on classes and special events. Call ahead at 304-242-7700 for potential evening hours.

OI’s Stifel Fine Arts Center is located at 1330 National Road, Wheeling.