A Peek into Anish Kapoor’s New Artistic Journey in Venice

Anish Kapoor, the renowned artist known for his massive sculptures and abstract creations, has embarked on a new venture in Venice, Italy. In a former boat repair workshop near the Grand Canal, he has transformed the space into a vibrant painting studio. The studio, with its Corinthian columns and skylights, is adorned with towering canvases, often drenched in Kapoor’s signature crimson red.

Kapoor, a British-Indian artist, is famous for his monumental sculptures, like Chicago’s iconic “Cloud Gate” (also known as “The Bean”), and immersive installations such as “Leviathan” in Paris. These creations often play with the perception of space and the absence of objects.

In 2016, Kapoor gained exclusive rights to use Vantablack, the darkest substance known, in his artwork. This sparked some controversy in the art world, as other artists felt excluded from using this unique material.

Kapoor’s recent shift towards painting is a departure from his large-scale works and installations. His paintings are known for their three-dimensional qualities, pushing the boundaries between painting and sculpture. They often explore visceral and intense themes, depicting vivid abstractions that evoke violence and sensuality.

Kapoor’s journey as an artist has been marked by collaboration and innovation. While his monumental sculptures require a team of experts and years to complete, his painting is a more solitary and immediate form of expression.

Venice holds a special place in Kapoor’s heart, as he has been connected to the city since his early years in the art world. In 2018, he acquired the Palazzo Priuli Manfrin, an abandoned Venetian landmark, with plans to establish a foundation headquarters and creative hub there.

Kapoor’s foundation project in Venice stands in contrast to other art foundations in the city, which often undergo extensive renovations. Kapoor aims to preserve the sense of decay in the palazzo while making some necessary structural upgrades.

Anish Kapoor’s artwork has always been rooted in art history and metaphysical concepts, drawing inspiration from artists like Kazimir Malevich and Marcel Duchamp. While he is known for his thought-provoking work, Kapoor does not consider his art to be a political message; instead, it is deeply rooted in artistic exploration.

In recent years, his paintings have taken center stage alongside his sculptures in gallery and museum exhibitions. The artist’s work continues to evolve, reflecting his relentless pursuit of artistic innovation.

Anish Kapoor’s artistic journey in Venice represents a new chapter in his illustrious career, with his paintings and sculptures coexisting and complementing one another. As he continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression, Kapoor’s work remains an enigmatic and thought-provoking force in the art world.

Source: Smithsonian Magazine