Art as a mirror

The Moderna Museet in Stockholm is hosting The Third Hand, an exhibition that brings together the provocative works of Maurizio Cattelan with pieces from the museum’s own collection. Known for his satirical and humorous approach to challenging social norms and power structures, Cattelan integrates his iconic pieces into museum spaces, creating a dialogue between his art and other renowned artists. The exhibition is divided into six rooms, each of which explores the concept of power in different contexts, including art, religion, politics and military force.

The list of Cattelan’s works, including a diminished Sistine Chapel, a La Nona Ora and the poignant sculpture La Commedia Umana, are juxtaposed with works by artists such as Eva Aeppli, Eija-Liisa Ahtila and Cecilia Edefalk. These pairings highlight the shifting dynamics of power and the social impact of art. Cattelan’s miniature Sistine Chapel, for example, allows viewers to appreciate Michelangelo’s frescoes up close, while his sculpture of Pope John Paul II questions the infallibility of religious figures.

Maurizio Cattelan’s thought-provoking installations and the museum’s carefully selected works create a powerful narrative about authority, influence and the human condition.