Carol Rama's 'A Rebel of Modernity' at Kunstmuseum Bern Revisits Her Transgressive Legacy
The Kunstmuseum Bern is showcasing 'A Rebel of Modernity,' which features 120 pieces by Carol Rama, spanning her artistic journey from the 1940s until her passing in 2015. This exhibition categorizes her creations into eight distinct phases, beginning with 'Appassionata' (1936–46), characterized by grotesque portrayals of women. Rama's inaugural exhibition in 1945 faced closure due to obscenity charges, yet she rose to prominence in the 1990s. The display also highlights her personal context, including her mother's institutionalization and her father's suicide in 1942. Among the significant works are 'Marta' (1940) and 'Autorattristatrice' (1968–69). The exhibition will be available until 13 July 2025, affirming her legacy in the art world.
Key facts
- Carol Rama died in 2015 at age 97 after decades of artworld snubs.
- The exhibition 'A Rebel of Modernity' at Kunstmuseum Bern features 120 works divided into eight chronological phases.
- Rama's 'Appassionata' series (1936–46) depicts women in grotesque, liberatory acts contrasting Fascist Italy's control.
- Her first show at Faber Gallery in Turin in 1945 was closed by police for obscenity.
- The exhibition contextualizes her work with her mother's institutionalization and father's suicide in 1942.
- Rama's style uses fleshy pink washes and red lines for body parts, outlined in black.
- She incorporated non-painterly materials like faux fur and rubber in later works.
- The exhibition runs through 13 July 2025, solidifying her canonical status.
Entities
Artists
- Carol Rama
- Titian
Institutions
- Kunstmuseum Bern
- Faber Gallery
- ArtReview
Locations
- Bern
- Switzerland
- Turin
- Italy