Earlier this month, the Centre Pompidou in Paris opened the largest retrospective ever dedicated to the Austrian artist Franz West [1947-2012], on view until December 10.
West’s work is vast and free spirited, part of a timeless dimension—from sculptures, which brought him international distinction in the mid 1980s, to video installations and paintings. The artist was occupied by a constant drive to communicate, paired with a proclivity toward play, mockery, individualism, and at time, distrust. Having created an estimated 6000 pieces, West confronts classification and the limits of design and art.
Should you find yourself in Paris for fashion week, we highly recommend checking out the nearly 200 works on display that showcase the complexities of the artist’s practice.