This announcement marks a significant development in the art world, as acclaimed American artist George Condo, renowned for his distinctive, Cubist-influenced portraits, is now dually represented by Sprüth Magers and Skarstedt Gallery. This collaboration signifies a fresh phase in Condo's illustrious career, following his departure from Hauser & Wirth. His work, characterized by 'artificial realism,' has profoundly shaped contemporary art, and this new representation underscores his lasting impact and influence.
George Condo's journey in the art world is marked by a rich history with both of his new representing galleries. His association with Monika Sprüth, co-founder of Sprüth Magers, dates back to 1984. Similarly, he maintained a working relationship with Skarstedt Gallery from 2004 to 2019. Per Skarstedt, the founder of the gallery bearing his name, expressed profound enthusiasm for this renewed partnership, stating his excitement to once again welcome the artist. This re-establishment of ties highlights the deep-rooted connections and mutual respect between Condo and these prestigious art institutions.
Born in Concord, New Hampshire, in 1957, Condo embarked on his artistic voyage after studying at the University of Massachusetts Lowell. His early creative endeavors were in music, where he played bass for a band called The Girls. A pivotal moment in his life came in 1979 when he relocated to New York, immersing himself in the vibrant East Village art scene. It was here that he began to forge the unique artistic identity that would later bring him international acclaim.
Condo's ascent to prominence began in the 1980s, propelled by the early backing of influential New York gallerists Pat Hearn and Barbara Gladstone. His signature distorted faces, which he termed 'artificial realism,' perfectly encapsulated the frenetic energy of that decade. He once articulated his artistic philosophy, stating, 'I want to paint what I think is on the interior, what’s actually going through their mind as opposed to what they look like,' emphasizing his focus on inner psychological landscapes rather than mere physical resemblance.
At 67, George Condo stands as one of the most celebrated and frequently exhibited painters of his generation. His artistry has been the focus of numerous solo exhibitions at esteemed venues globally. Notable presentations include shows at the Morgan Library and Museum in 2023, the Phillips Collection in Washington, D.C., in 2017, and a current exhibition at the Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris. Prior to his move from Hauser & Wirth, he also showcased a two-venue exhibition earlier this year in New York, a collaborative effort with Sprüth Magers.
The integration of George Condo into the rosters of Sprüth Magers and Skarstedt Gallery heralds a dynamic new phase for an artist whose unique vision has consistently redefined contemporary portraiture. This move is a testament to his enduring legacy and continued relevance in the global art discourse, promising fresh interpretations and broader exposure for his distinctive oeuvre.
