The first US museum survey for Michel Majerus, which explores the late artist’s prescient work by taking up his rich and varied interpretations of capitalism and cultural imperialism as they relate to art in American culture. Created at the threshold of the twenty-first century, Majerus’s works expound on themes of transformation and are characterized by a fascination with speed, openness, and transmission. The artist’s works explore his passion for technology, youth culture, and art history—all united by his obsession with the power of art and institutions.
The exhibition brings together works from throughout Majerus’s brief but dynamic and prolific career, highlighting their timely reflection on and criticism of the pervasiveness of images. “Progressive Aesthetics” begins with works from the early 1990s, and sees Majerus exploring the story of modernism, antagonizing twentieth-century avant-garde movements, their power, and limitations. Engaging with the influences of art history on Majerus’s work, the exhibition also includes abstract paintings that quote modern masters such as Willem de Kooning and Frank Stella.
