Colbert's Pop Mythology at Pompeii: A Spectacular Mismatch

The Archaeological Park of Pompeii is hosting 'Philip Colbert in Pompeii: Pop Mythology' until November 30, 2026. Curated by Cesare Biasini Selvaggi, the exhibition features over thirty monumental sculptures by British artist Philip Colbert, including his signature anthropomorphic lobster alter ego. Colbert's works, characterized by saturated colors, monumentality, and pop-kitsch irony, are designed for social media circulation and remain indifferent to their archaeological context. The critic argues that the show reduces Pompeii to a prestigious backdrop for a communication strategy, lacking genuine dialogue with the site. Despite curatorial claims of addressing themes like war, greed, and climate crisis, the works fail to produce critical engagement. The exhibition runs from July 27, 2026, to November 27, 2026, at the Scavi di Pompei, Porta Marina, Via Villa dei Misteri, Pompei (Naples).