WHAT

Taking its title from Michelangelo’s fresco in the Sistine Chapel, Maurizio Cattelan’s first solo exhibition in China presents 29 works from his 30-year long career that confront themes of death, social mores, the colossus of art history, and the nature and value of art in globalised contemporary society. Whereas his art has often been presented in a highly specific manner, this exhibition at UCCA takes a more holistic approach, offering the opportunity to pause and reflect on the artist’s vision and philosophy. The exhibition encourages viewers to seek out the stories within each work and to form their own personal connections with, and judgments of the art presented.

WHY

Maurizio Cattelan is one of the most popular as well as controversial artists on the contemporary art scene. His playful and provocative use of materials, objects, and gestures set in challenging contexts forces commentary and engagement. In this exhibition, site-specific works, such as ‘Zhang San’ (2021), a sculpture outfitted as a homeless person in Beijing, prompts viewers to engage in his artistic exploits. Other works simultaneously mock and pay homage to pop culture and Italian art history. Though the show may appear humourous and fun, viewers are prompted to examine contradictions and stereotypes within society on a much deeper level.