BMW‑backed Cattelan exhibition opens in Berlin

Maurizio Cattelan's first major solo exhibition in Berlin meets the public with a special installation in the Mies van der Rohe building, supported by BMW's long‑term backing.
BMW‑backed Cattelan exhibition opens in Berlin - bimakale.com
10 Eylül 2026 Perşembe - 08:08 (52 Dakika önce) 3 dk okuma

Concept and Significance of the Exhibition

Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan is hosting his first large‑scale solo show in Germany. Organized as part of the Preis der Nationalgalerie 2026, the event marks a milestone in the artist’s career. Cattelan’s historically critical works bring a fresh breath to Berlin’s cultural scene. In particular, the exhibition titled “MAURIZIO CATTELAN. NIGHT” blends the artist’s humorous and provocative approach with the historic fabric of the venue.

The show will open on 10 September 2026 and run until 7 March 2027. During this period, both local and international visitors will have the chance to observe the evolution of the artist’s oeuvre under one roof.

Intersection of Past and Present

Among Cattelan’s best‑known works are the provocative sculptures “La Nona Ora” and “America”. Displaying these pieces will challenge viewers to reconsider the artist’s social critiques. In addition, a new site‑specific installation created for the exhibition will add another layer to Berlin’s modern architecture.

Mies van der Rohe Building and Site‑Specific Installation

The Nationalgalerie’s Mies van der Rohe building is regarded as an iconic example of 20th‑century architecture. The installation prepared inside this historic structure is designed to engage in dialogue with Cattelan’s works. The minimalist lines of the space contrast with the artist’s ironic and sometimes striking narratives.

Such a site‑specific work allows not only the objects on display but also the visitor’s perception of space to be re‑configured. Visitors will be able to assess both the physical placement of the artworks and the architectural framework simultaneously.

BMW’s Art Sponsorship Strategy

BMW Group has been the long‑term sponsor of the Preis der Nationalgalerie since 2006. This partnership demonstrates the automotive brand’s commitment not only to technical innovation but also to cultural projects. BMW’s involvement in this type of sponsorship is part of its effort to associate the brand identity with art and design.

While sustainability, digitalisation and user experience dominate the automotive sector, BMW’s role as an art sponsor elevates the brand’s value to an emotional dimension. It encourages art lovers and potential customers to perceive the brand not merely as a vehicle manufacturer but as a cultural actor.

Cultural and Industrial Interaction

A car company sponsoring a major art event exemplifies the crossing of traditional sector boundaries. This interaction highlights the common ground of two different fields – innovation, aesthetics and societal impact. Cattelan’s provocative language forms an interesting parallel with BMW’s pursuit of technological innovation.

The exhibition’s setting in Berlin reinforces the city’s multicultural character and the role of art in public space. Visitors will not only experience an artistic encounter but also observe how modern design and engineering evolve together.

In this context, the exhibition serves as a bridge for both the art world and the automotive industry. The creative processes of artists and engineers are presented to the audience in a shared language.

In summary, the BMW‑backed Maurizio Cattelan exhibition will claim a prominent spot in Berlin’s cultural calendar. The provocative power of art combined with an automobile brand’s sponsorship strategy offers audiences a fresh perspective. By the time the show closes, such collaborations are certain to inspire future cultural projects.

Source: BMW Group Press

Kaynak: BMW Group Basın

Alakalı İçerikler


  • Maurizio Cattelan
  • Nationalgalerie
  • BMW
  • Preis der Nationalgalerie
  • Mies van der Rohe
  • çağdaş sanat
  • Berlin sergisi



Comments
Add your comment
Kullanıcı
0 character
Other Tags by the Author Show all
Popular Tags Show all
Other content by the author