In Arles, 'Suspects' Exhibition Links Van Gogh's Outcast Status to Artful Tricksters
From May 22 to October 18, 2026, the Fondation Vincent van Gogh in Arles will host 'Suspects – Van Gogh, Tricksters & Co.', a showcase that delves into the theme of artistic rebellion through the lens of the trickster archetype. Curated by Jean de Loisy and Margaux Bonopera, the exhibition will highlight approximately thirty contemporary artists, spanning from the late 20th century to today. A significant element is a petition from February 1889 by residents of Arles advocating for Vincent van Gogh's institutionalization, which led to his relocation from the Yellow House to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Featured works include Nina Childress's self-portrait, Sarah Lucas's fried eggs, and Maurizio Cattelan's banana, alongside striking pieces by Jacques Lizène, Clément Courgeon, and Bruce Nauman, with lighter moments like Cattelan's rodent dispute.
Key facts
- The exhibition 'Suspects – Van Gogh, Tricksters & Co.' is on view at the Fondation Vincent van Gogh in Arles from May 22 to October 18, 2026.
- It features around thirty artists from the second half of the 20th century to today.
- Curated by Jean de Loisy and Margaux Bonopera, the show centers on the mythological figure of the trickster.
- For the first time in France, a February 1889 petition by Arlesian residents demanding Van Gogh's internment is displayed.
- Van Gogh left the Yellow House and moved to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence after the petition.
- Participating artists include Nina Childress, Sarah Lucas, Leigh Bowery, Maurizio Cattelan, Jacques Lizène, Clément Courgeon, Bruce Nauman, and Urs Lüthi.
- Works range from self-deprecating portraits to provocative acts, including Cattelan's banana and Nauman's violence videos.
- The exhibition includes a relief: Cattelan's mouse-hole scene and Urs Lüthi's weeping sculpture.
Entities
Artists
- Vincent van Gogh
- Théo van Gogh
- Maurizio Cattelan
- Nina Childress
- Sarah Lucas
- Leigh Bowery
- Jacques Lizène
- Clément Courgeon
- Bruce Nauman
- Urs Lüthi
- Jean de Loisy
- Margaux Bonopera
Institutions
- Fondation Vincent van Gogh
- Vincent van Gogh Foundation
- Art : Concept
- Sadie Coles HQ
- ADAGP
Locations
- Arles
- France
- Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
- Antwerp
- Belgium
- Paris
- London
- United Kingdom
- Place Lamartine