Gagosian at Art Basel Paris: A Dialogue Across Time

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 Gagosian 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 post-war masterpiece, created in the South of France, reflects his bond with Françoise Gilot. Her form is reduced to biomorphic shapes set against the vibrant Mediterranean sky. Pollock’s Crucifixion (1939–40), gifted to his Jungian psychoanalyst, bursts with the early dynamism that marked his career.

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.

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) captures the dynamic energy of machines. Jadé Fadojutimi’s Untitled (2024) evokes emotions through a vibrant 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.

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.