ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Artist Robert Cenedella sues five major US museums for $100 million over alleged market manipulation

market-auction · 2026-04-24

So, Robert Cenedella, an artist known for his biting satire and who appeared in the 2015 film 'Art Bastard,' has just filed a federal class action lawsuit against five major U.S. museums. These include the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Whitney Museum, the Guggenheim, the New Museum, and the Museum of Modern Art, as reported by Bloomberg. In his 18-page complaint, Cenedella argues that these museums are part of a 'corporate museum cartel' that jacks up prices for certain contemporary artists while undermining his work and others. He's seeking $100 million in damages, claiming that the current art scene, influenced by galleries and auction houses, fails to recognize real talent and skill. This lawsuit highlights the ongoing struggle between established art institutions and lesser-known artists.

Key facts

  • Robert Cenedella filed a federal class action lawsuit against five major US museums.
  • The museums are the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Whitney Museum, Guggenheim Museum, New Museum, and Museum of Modern Art.
  • The lawsuit alleges a 'corporate museum cartel' manipulates the art market.
  • Cenedella claims the cartel increases prices for certain artists while suppressing prices for him and others.
  • The artist is seeking $100 million in damages.
  • Cenedella is known for satirical paintings and the documentary 'Art Bastard' (2015).
  • The lawsuit was reported by Bloomberg.
  • The court filing is 18 pages long.

Entities

Artists

  • Robert Cenedella

Institutions

  • Metropolitan Museum of Art
  • Whitney Museum
  • Guggenheim Museum
  • New Museum
  • Museum of Modern Art
  • Bloomberg
  • Whitney Museum of American Art
  • Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
  • Artforum

Locations

  • New York
  • United States

Sources