Stefan Sagmeister's 'Promotion' at Musée des Arts décoratifs

The Musée des Arts décoratifs in Paris hosted an exhibition of Austrian-born, New York-based graphic designer Stefan Sagmeister from October 13, 2011 to February 19, 2012. The show focused on the concept of 'promotion' as a driving force in his work, encompassing commercial and cultural projects alike. Sagmeister, who founded his agency in 1993, is known for his eclectic style that blends visual impact with economic imperatives. The exhibition featured pieces such as a wall installation using 11,000 bananas that decayed over time, spelling out the slogan 'Self-Confidence Produces Fine Results', and a Levi's jeans advertisement constructed with rotating gears reminiscent of Chaplin's Modern Times. Sagmeister also incorporated self-promotional works, including phrases carved or written on his own body and photographed, evoking Viennese Actionism. The exhibition was reviewed by Paul Ardenne.