Balenciaga’s Montenapoleone Store in Milan to Host Greene’s Timeless Symbols Series
Balenciaga, renowned for its avant-garde approach to fashion, announces its latest venture in the realm of artistry. Beginning April 13th, 2024, the luxury fashion house will unveil a collaborative exhibition with American artist Andrew J. Greene as part of its ongoing Art in Stores project. The exhibition will debut at Balenciaga’s Montenapoleone store in Milan, coinciding with the prestigious 2024 Salone del Mobile event. Following this debut, Greene’s captivating artworks will embark on a global journey, gracing other Balenciaga stores around the world.
Andrew J. Greene’s artistic vision transcends conventional boundaries, offering a fresh perspective on everyday objects through his Timeless Symbols series. In this collection, Greene skillfully blends familiar, mass-produced items with stainless-steel stanchions, imbuing them with a sense of timelessness and intrigue. Each artwork is equipped with a concealed motor, orchestrating a slow, hypnotic rotation that mimics the rhythm of traditional retail displays. Positioned behind the glass storefront, these artworks command attention, inviting viewers to contemplate the intersection of art and commerce in contemporary society.
Among Greene’s thought-provoking sculptures are recognizable symbols of modern life, including a handheld mirror, a shrimp cocktail, a red rose, and a mapped globe. Interspersed among these captivating pieces are Balenciaga’s own iconic trompe-l’œil products, seamlessly integrated into Greene’s artistic narrative. From the reusable Coffee Cup to the shoe-like Knife Clutch and the glossy leather Chips Bag, these items reflect Greene’s fascination with vernacular commodity culture and its impact on our perceptions of taste, meaning, and ideology.
Andrew J. Greene, based in Los Angeles, California, is renowned for his conceptual approach to art. Through his work, Greene delves into the intricacies of everyday objects, juxtaposing ordinary and antique forms to provoke contemplation and reflection. His exploration of commodity culture challenges viewers to reconsider the significance of the objects that surround them, offering a deeper insight into the cultural and social dynamics at play.
As Balenciaga continues to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation, the collaboration with Andrew J. Greene represents a bold exploration of art within the realm of luxury fashion. By bringing Greene’s Timeless Symbols series to its Montenapoleone store in Milan and beyond, Balenciaga reaffirms its commitment to fostering dialogue and provoking thought in the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art and design.