Chapman Brothers' Art Linked to Balenciaga Scandal by Online Conspiracy Theorists
In late 2022, artists Jake and Dinos Chapman became targets of online conspiracy theorists following Balenciaga's contentious child photoshoot featuring bondage themes. Right-wing commentators connected the Chapmans' provocative sculptures to Balenciaga, citing overlapping ownership structures. Christie's, the auction house representing the Chapmans, is owned by Groupe Artémis, which is led by François-Henri Pinault, the CEO of Kering, Balenciaga's parent company. The conspiracy theories alleged the existence of elite pedophilia within auction catalogs and fashion marketing. While Balenciaga issued swift apologies, the Chapmans faced little backlash, highlighting their provocative artistic approach. Their unsettling pieces have commanded high prices for decades, underscoring the interplay between luxury fashion and contemporary art in terms of moral accountability.
Key facts
- Online conspiracy theorists attempted to cancel the Chapman Brothers in late 2022
- The campaign connected their art to Balenciaga's bondage-themed child photoshoot controversy
- Christie's auction house sells the Chapmans' work and is owned by Groupe Artémis
- François-Henri Pinault controls both Groupe Artémis and Kering (Balenciaga's parent company)
- Conspiracy theories referenced Pizzagate and QAnon narratives about elite pedophilia
- Balenciaga's photographer Gabriele Galimberti and creative director Demna apologized for the photoshoot
- Kim Kardashian publicly condemned Balenciaga's campaign
- The Chapman Brothers' provocative sculptures feature dolls with adult genitalia
Entities
Artists
- Jake Chapman
- Dinos Chapman
- Gabriele Galimberti
- Demna
Institutions
- Christie's
- Groupe Artémis
- Kering
- Balenciaga