Yayoi Kusama, PUMPKIN (L), 2014
Presented by David Zwirner
Born in 1929 in Matsumoto, lives and work in Tokyo
241 x 235 x 235 cm
Bronze
Across her extensive practice—which includes paintings, performances, installations, outdoor sculptures, literature, films, fashion, and architectural designs—Yayoi Kusama imbues her work with autobiographical and psychological meanings. Kusama’s connection to pumpkins originates from her childhood, when her family’s home was surrounded by fields of these squashes. For Kusama, pumpkins often serve as stand-ins for self-portraits, reflecting her admiration for their everyday presence, resilience, and unique, often whimsical shapes. She describes pumpkins as ‘a great comfort’, appreciating them for their ability to convey both joy and humility. Since 1946, her depictions of pumpkins have varied in form, colour, and size, but consistently showcase her signature polka dot pattern.
Photo credit: Yayoi Kusama, PUMPKIN (L), 2014. Installation view from ‘My Soul Blooms Forever,’ Museum of Islamic Art, Doha, November 19, 2022 – March 1 2023. Photo by Raviv Cohen. Artwork ©️ YAYOI KUSAMA. Courtesy David Zwirner, Ota Fine Arts, and Victoria Miro.
Jean Prouvé, Maison démontable 6x9, 1944
Presented by Galerie Patrick Seguin
Born in 1901 in Paris, died in 1984 in Nancy
Steel, wood, and glass
Jean Prouvé’s prolific career spanned multiple disciplines including metalwork, engineering, architecture, and product, lighting and furniture design. Across all these domains, he was motivated to use design to solve practical issues without sacrificing elegance. Born out of an urgent need for temporary housing after the Second World War, Maison démontable 6x9 (6x9 Demountable House) was designed to provide shelter for displaced populations in France. The 36-square-meter house was made from a steel frame with standardized wooden panels, allowing for rapid assembly and disassembly. Displayed for the first time as part of the Art Basel Paris Public Program, this installation includes a bow window and deck, linking indoor and outdoor spaces, and is outfitted with Prouvé-designed furniture and lighting.
Photo credit: ©️ Galerie Patrick Seguin
John Chamberlain, BALMYWISECRACK, 2011
Presented by Mnuchin Gallery
Born in 1927 in Rochester, died in 2011 in New York
Aluminum, lead, polyther urethene and stainless steel
373.38 x 558.8 x 454.66 cm
American artist John Chamberlain was known for compressing discarded automobile parts into abstract sculptures. In the 1980s, he began working with aluminum foil—twisting, bending, and knotting it into whimsical shapes that fit in his hands. Known as his “Foils” series, these abstracted forms seem to capture moments of spontaneous action, almost like dancers suspended mid-step. Years later, these small maquettes were scaled up into industrial aluminum, preserving the crinkled texture of the originals. Often painted in vivid colours like pink, green, copper, and silver, the larger sculptures create a striking contrast between their delicate appearance and substantial physical weight. Also a poet, Chamberlain was known for giving his works evocative titles—this sculpture is no exception.