Julie Mehretu’s Artistic Odyssey Unveiled at Palazzo Grassi
Palazzo Grassi sets the stage for an extraordinary journey through the artistic evolution of Julie Mehretu, offering a profound exploration of her groundbreaking body of work in the largest exhibition of her oeuvre to date in Europe. From March 17, 2024, to January 6, 2025, “Ensemble” transforms the halls of Palazzo Grassi into a sanctuary of artistic expression, curated by Caroline Bourgeois, Chief Curator of the Pinault Collection, in collaboration with Mehretu herself.
Spanning two expansive floors, the exhibition showcases over fifty works spanning a quarter-century of Mehretu’s career, encompassing both painting and printmaking. Among these are several of Mehretu’s latest paintings, crafted between 2021 and 2024, offering viewers a glimpse into the artist’s current explorations. Seventeen pieces from the Pinault Collection anchor the display, complemented by loans from esteemed international institutions and private collectors.
What distinguishes “Ensemble” is its embrace of Mehretu’s artistic community, featuring works by her closest artist friends, whose influence has shaped her journey. Pieces by Nairy Baghramian, Huma Bhabha, Tacita Dean, David Hammons, Robin Coste Lewis, Paul Pfeiffer, and Jessica Rankin enter into a profound dialogue with Mehretu’s art, illuminating shared themes and driving forces. Despite diverse backgrounds and formal approaches, these artists collectively challenge the notion of artistic isolation, affirming the interconnectedness of creative minds.
The exhibition transcends a linear narrative, inviting visitors on a free-flowing exploration of Mehretu’s practice. Curated as a non-chronological voyage, it reveals the palimpsestic nature of Mehretu’s work, where multiple layers of imagery intersect to create a rich tapestry of meaning. This interplay mirrors the collective dimension inherent in artistic creation, underscoring Mehretu’s deep-rooted connections to her peers and the broader artistic discourse.
Collaboratively realized with K21–Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen (Düsseldorf), “Ensemble” extends its reach beyond Palazzo Grassi, destined for a subsequent presentation in 2025. Accompanied by a comprehensive catalogue featuring texts by prominent scholars and conversations with Mehretu and her contemporaries, the exhibition offers a holistic engagement with her artistic vision.
In addition to its visual feast, “Ensemble” promises a dynamic program of conferences and cultural events, providing deeper insights into Mehretu’s practice and the themes explored within the exhibition. From enlightening conversations with the artist and her peers to captivating performances, the cultural program enriches the exhibition experience, fostering dialogue and reflection.
As Bruno Racine, Director of Palazzo Grassi, articulates in the catalogue, “Ensemble” epitomizes Mehretu’s unwavering commitment to artistic collaboration and collective creation. Through this monumental showcase, Palazzo Grassi pays homage to Mehretu’s enduring legacy while reaffirming the transformative power of art to unite and inspire.
