Maurizio Cattelan (Italy, 1960) is a provocative contemporary artist known for his satirical and conceptual works. Employing humor and irony, he critiques societal norms, politics, and art itself. Iconic pieces include Comedian (a banana taped to a wall) and La Nona Ora (a sculpture of the Pope struck by a meteorite).
PhotographA photograph is an image captured with a camera. Traditionally, photographs were made by exposing film and then developing the image on light-sensitive paper using chemicals. Today, photographs can also be captured digitally and printed or displayed electronically. The process requires a camera, whether film or digital, and a photographer.
Maurizio Cattelan (Italy, 1960) is a provocative contemporary artist known for his satirical and conceptual works. Employing humor and irony, he critiques societal norms, politics, and art itself. Iconic pieces include Comedian (a banana taped to a wall) and La Nona Ora (a sculpture of the Pope struck by a meteorite).
It's not my job to tell people what a work means.
- Maurizio Cattelan
Known for his satirical and shocking sculptures and installations, Maurizio Cattelan is revered for his irreverent, subversive and often controversial works. Cattelan does not shy away from the use of taboo themes such as taxidermy – one of his most recognised and shocking works is Novecento; the body of a former race-horse, hanging by a harness in a drooping position. Darkly humorous and critical at the same time, Cattelan often commented on current affairs or public figures; La Nona Ora was a work that portrayed Pope John Paul II being hit by a meteorite. Describing himself as a lazy artist, Cattelan’s works are often simple to the point that they validate his description; one of his earliest exhibitions saw him hang a ‘Be Back Soon’ sign outside the gallery, which he kept closed for the duration – a fitting example of the humorous, tongue-in-cheek nature that pervades his work.
Contemporary art refers to avant-garde or innovative art created in the recent past or present day. The exact starting point of contemporary art varies depending on the institution, often tied to the founding year of museums or galleries that showcase the style. Contemporary art is characterized by its focus on current ideas, diverse media, and the exploration of new concepts and techniques.