The Pirelli HangarBicocca in Milan is hosting a landmark retrospective of the Swiss artist Jean Tinguely.
Running from October 10, 2024, to February 2, 2025, the exhibition offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the visionary world of Jean Tinguely, celebrated for his kinetic sculptures and groundbreaking exploration of mechanical movement in art.
This is the largest retrospective of Tinguely's work in Italy since his passing, showcasing more than forty pieces that trace his artistic journey from the 1950s to the 1990s. Presented in the expansive 5,000-square-meter Navate space—a former industrial site that resonates with the mechanical nature of Tinguely’s art—the exhibition features several of his monumental kinetic sculptures. Visitors will be captivated by the dynamic interplay of movement, sound, and machinery that defines his work.
Born in 1925, Tinguely studied at the Basel Academy before moving to Paris, where he pursued a bold, experimental approach to art. In 1960, he became a founding member of the New Realism movement by co-signing the Manifesto of New Realism, conceived by art critic Pierre Restany. Tinguely’s kinetic art, which combines mechanical innovation with a satirical critique of modern society’s obsession with technology and progress, has cemented his legacy as one of Switzerland’s most celebrated artists.
His work continues to inspire and engage audiences through the Museum Tinguely in Basel, established in 1996. The museum serves as a vibrant, interactive tribute to Tinguely's life and art, encouraging playful and thought-provoking exploration of his enduring contributions to contemporary art.
The exhibition runs until 2 Febraury 2025 at Pirelli HangarBicocca, Milan. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the magical world of Jean Tinguely!