Gagosian at Art Basel Paris: A Dialogue Across Time

Tom Wesselmann Smoker #20, 1975 Oil on canvas 71 1/2 x 67 inches (181.6 x 170.2 cm) © The Estate of Tom Wesselmann/Licensed by ARS/VAGA, New York Photo: Jeffrey Sturges Courtesy the Estate of Tom Wesselmann & Gagosian

Gagosian Gallery has made a powerful statement at Art Basel Paris, with a remarkable exhibition housed in the Grand Palais. The display features a collection of paintings, sculptures, and photographs that span decades, bridging modern and contemporary art. After the fair, the exhibition will continue at Gagosian’s Paris location on Rue de Ponthieu, offering visitors even more time to experience this extraordinary showcase.

This dual presentation highlights the dialogue between abstract and figurative art, celebrating both iconic artists and newer talents. Picasso’s Femme nue sur fond bleu (1949) anchors the exhibit. This masterpiece from his post-war years in the South of France captures his relationship with Françoise Gilot, reducing her form to biomorphic shapes against the Mediterranean sky. Pollock’s Crucifixion (1939–40), gifted to his Jungian psychoanalyst, bursts with the early dynamism that marked his career.

Rudolf Stingel Untitled (Der Kranke), 2023 Oil and enamel on canvas 95 x 76 inches (241.3 x 193 cm) © Rudolf Stingel Photo: Object Studies Courtesy the artist & Gagosian

Modern Masters and Pop Icons

Helen Frankenthaler’s Shatter (1953) is a testament to her revolutionary use of diluted oils on raw canvas. The piece continues to inspire artists today, as seen in the retrospective at Fondazione Palazzo Strozzi. Yves Klein’s Untitled Fire Color Painting (1962) fuses flame, water, and his signature International Klein Blue (IKB), evoking themes of transformation. Simon Hantaï’s Meun (1968) captures the precision of his folding and painting technique, resulting in a striking bilateral composition.

Pop art also shines, with works like Tom Wesselmann’s Smoker #20 (1975), which explores fragmented human forms in monochrome. Andy Warhol’s Marella Agnelli (1982), a portrait of the Italian fashion icon, adds an unmistakable pop sensibility to the collection. Roy Lichtenstein’s Modern Sculpture with Glass Wave (1967) pairs sleek industrial forms with playful movement, making it a standout piece.

Jonas Wood 2 Picasso Pots with Fruit, 2024 Oil and acrylic on canvas 32 x 30 inches (81.3 x 76.2 cm) © Jonas Wood Photo: Marten Elder Courtesy the artist & Gagosian

Contemporary Energy and Monumental Sculptures

The exhibition also brings contemporary works into the spotlight. John Currin’s The Favorite (2024) blends beauty and discomfort in his signature surreal style. Sterling Ruby’s TURBINE (2024) channels the energy of machines, while Jadé Fadojutimi’s Untitled (2024) delivers an emotional swirl of colors and shapes.

Outside the gallery, larger-than-life sculptures take center stage. Carsten Höller’s Giant Triple Mushroom (2024), installed at Place Vendôme, transforms natural elements into something fantastical. Meanwhile, Jordan Wolfson’s Red Sculpture (2017–24) blends industrial and organic shapes, on display at Gagosian’s Rue de Ponthieu location.

Frank Gehry Fish on Fire (New York), 2023 Copper and steel wire 15 1/2 x 43 x 19 1/2 inches (39.4 x 109.2 x 49.5 cm) © Frank O. Gehry Photo: Maris Hutchinson Courtesy Gagosian

This presentation at Art Basel Paris is a dynamic exploration of the evolution of art. Gagosian’s ability to juxtapose historic and contemporary works creates a captivating conversation that is sure to resonate with art lovers everywhere.