Francesco Bonami, the curator of an upcoming Maurizio Cattelan exhibition in New York, described the artist as political in the sense that he tackles societal issues and current events, often striking a nerve. The exhibition represents Cattelan’s first collaboration with the mega-gallery owned by Larry Gagosian, who is known for his focus on the art market. Despite this partnership, Cattelan remains a free agent and has not signed any exclusive agreements. The works in the exhibition, including a colossal wall of gold shootings, will be available for purchase, though the gallery did not disclose pricing information. Cattelan’s art garnered attention in 2016 when his sculpture of Hitler sold for $17.2 million at auction.
In the monastery park, Cattelan critiqued modern materialism by suggesting that sacrament has been replaced by shopping, and advocating for a simpler, spartan lifestyle. While he embraces a minimalist lifestyle himself, Cattelan is not above collaborating with figures from the art market, such as Gagosian. The artist expressed his excitement for an upcoming project in the Vatican pavilion at the 2024 Venice Biennale, which will include an installation at a women’s prison featuring a giant image of feet. Despite his controversial and thought-provoking works, Cattelan maintains a sense of humor and playfulness in his art.
The exhibition in New York will showcase Cattelan’s diverse body of work and allow American audiences to experience his provocative and sometimes unsettling creations. With pieces like “Him,” a sculpture of Hitler on his knees, Cattelan pushes the boundaries of societal norms and challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable subjects. Bonami expressed curiosity about how Americans will respond to the show, given Cattelan’s reputation as a political artist who addresses complex issues. The inclusion of a wall of gold shootings exemplifies Cattelan’s ability to tackle controversial topics while maintaining a sense of irony and whimsy.
Cattelan’s decision to collaborate with Gagosian, a prominent figure in the art world known for his commercial focus, highlights the artist’s willingness to work with diverse partners and challenge traditional norms. Despite concerns about the commercialization of art, Cattelan remains committed to his artistic vision and continues to push boundaries in his work. The exhibition in New York will offer collectors the opportunity to purchase Cattelan’s pieces, though pricing details have not been released. The artist’s previous show in New York at the Marian Goodman Gallery in 2000 was influential in the art world, and this new exhibition represents a significant moment in his career.
As Cattelan reflects on his upcoming projects, including the installation at the Venice Biennale and the exhibition in New York, he remains focused on addressing societal issues and sparking dialogue through his art. His unconventional approach and willingness to collaborate with unexpected partners demonstrate his commitment to pushing boundaries and challenging norms in the art world. The inclusion of his work in the Vatican pavilion and the women’s prison installation show Cattelan’s interest in engaging with diverse audiences and addressing complex issues. The exhibition in New York will give American audiences a chance to experience Cattelan’s provocative and thought-provoking creations firsthand, while also sparking discussion and reflection on contemporary societal issues.
