From February 24, 2024, to January 12, 2025, Moderna Museet in Stockholm will host “The Third Hand,” a compelling exhibition by renowned artist Maurizio Cattelan. Known for his bold and irreverent approach, Cattelan uses this platform to examine themes of power, authority, and societal norms through a mix of humor and provocation.
ART
Cattelan, an influential figure in contemporary art, has been challenging conventions for over three decades. Born in Italy and based in Milan and New York, his work often scrutinizes power structures and belief systems, leaving interpretation open to the audience. In “The Third Hand,” he juxtaposes his iconic pieces with select works from Moderna Museet’s extensive collection, creating a dynamic and thought-provoking dialogue.
The exhibition features several of Cattelan’s signature works: a pope felled by a meteorite, pigeons perched ominously above, a miniature Sistine Chapel revealing its intricate details, a dictator depicted as a remorseful figure, and a fascist salute rendered harmless by missing fingers. These pieces invite viewers to reflect on the complexities of power and the human condition.
“The Third Hand” also alludes to Cattelan’s curatorial role in the exhibition, mediating between the museum and its collection. This unique curation raises important questions about the criteria for selecting and displaying art. By integrating works from artists such as Eva Aeppli, Eija-Liisa Ahtila, Cecilia Edefalk, Lena Svedberg, and Rosemarie Trockel, Cattelan fosters a new perspective on the interplay of power in art.
Spread across six galleries, the exhibition challenges conventional power relationships, exploring the intersections of art with religion, politics, military influence, and abstract notions of power. It also shines a light on marginalized and overlooked subjects, offering a poignant commentary on social hierarchies.
Gitte Ørskou, Director of Moderna Museet and curator of the exhibition, states, “This is the second time that we have invited an artist to delve into our vast collection. Maurizio Cattelan’s practice is rooted in conceptual art, asking questions about and of our reality. As a curator and founder of art magazines, he has been in constant dialogue with art. His critical and insightful view of our collection gives art back its power.”
“The Third Hand” is set to be a riveting exhibition, encouraging visitors to rethink their views on power, authority, and the role of art in society.
