Maurizio Cattelan
Maurizio Cattelan, born in Padua, Italy in 1960, is a provocative contemporary artist known for his satirical and often controversial works. Cattelan's career began in the late 1980s and he quickly became known for his irreverent approach to art, which frequently challenges social norms and institutions. His notable works include "La Nona Ora" (The Ninth Hour), a sculpture of Pope John Paul II struck by a meteorite, and "Comedian," a banana duct-taped to a wall which became an internet sensation and a commentary on art market absurdities. Another significant piece, "America," a fully functional 18-karat gold toilet, critiques wealth and excess. Cattelan's art often employs humor and shock to provoke thought and discussion, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. His exhibitions have been held in major institutions like the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York and the Palais de Tokyo in Paris. Cattelan continues to be a leading figure in contemporary art, renowned for his ability to engage audiences and challenge perceptions. Read more about Arts.