Hauser & Wirth, a prominent figure in the global art scene, has unveiled its latest collaboration with Goodman Gallery and Galleria Lia Rumma, marking the joint representation of renowned South African artist William Kentridge. The announcement, made on Thursday, signifies a significant shift in Kentridge’s artistic journey, transitioning from his long-time dealer Marian Goodman Gallery to embark on a new chapter with Hauser & Wirth.
The move comes with anticipation as Hauser & Wirth prepares to host a solo exhibition for Kentridge at one of its New York locations in 2025, promising an immersive experience into the artist’s multifaceted world.
Born in Johannesburg in 1955, William Kentridge has spent over five decades crafting a diverse body of work that transcends traditional artistic boundaries. His practice, which encompasses drawing, sculpture, printmaking, film, theater, and opera productions, serves as a reflection of his upbringing during the apartheid era. Themes of history, power, and memory resonate deeply within Kentridge’s art, offering viewers a profound exploration of universal and personal narratives.
Kentridge’s departure from Marian Goodman Gallery, where he fostered his reputation for over two decades, signals a pivotal moment in his artistic trajectory. However, it is a transition marked by excitement rather than farewell, as Hauser & Wirth eagerly embraces the opportunity to collaborate with the esteemed artist.
“We are proud to announce representation of artist William Kentridge in collaboration with Goodman Gallery and Galleria Lia Rumma,” expressed Iwan Wirth, President of Hauser & Wirth. “William’s virtuosity as an artist, thinker, polymath, and mentor of others sets him apart as a creative luminary of our time.”
Kentridge’s influence extends far beyond the realm of visual arts. In 2016, he established the Centre for the Less Good Idea in Johannesburg, a dynamic space dedicated to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and experimentation. Through workshops, public performances, and mentorship initiatives, the center embodies Kentridge’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of creativity.
As Hauser & Wirth prepares to showcase Kentridge’s work in 2025, art enthusiasts eagerly anticipate delving into the intricacies of his practice. The forthcoming exhibition promises to offer a compelling narrative that intertwines politics, mythology, literature, and art history, inviting audiences to navigate the complexities of the human experience.
In addition to the upcoming exhibition, Kentridge’s opera, “The Great Yes, the Great No,” is set to premiere at LUMA Foundation in Arles, France, further solidifying his position as a pioneering force in the contemporary arts landscape.
As the world eagerly awaits the unveiling of William Kentridge’s latest endeavors, Hauser & Wirth’s collaboration with the esteemed artist marks a significant moment in the intersection of creativity and collaboration.
Image Credits: Portrait of William Kentridge by Norbert Miguletz. © William Kentridge. Courtesy of the artist, Goodman Gallery, and Hauser & Wirth.
