Tim Van Laere Gallery Presents 'Lust for Life' Exhibition in Rome
The Tim Van Laere Gallery in Rome showcases the group exhibition titled 'Lust for Life,' which delves into the emotional reactions to vulnerability in the context of worldwide conflicts. The exhibition is anchored by three pieces from German artist George Grosz (1893–1959): 'Streit am Spieltisch' (1912), 'Waiting for Better Times' (1933), and 'The Invasion' (1947). Belgian artist Rinus Van De Velde (born 1983) presents two works from 2025: 'Dear Rinus, my mind is explodin' and 'Reality is generic, Rinus.' Additionally, Ben Sledsens (born 1991) features 'Seven Flowers and a Lake' (2025) and 'Autumn Hill' (2025–2026). Other notable artists include Franz West (1947–2012), Carroll Dunham (born 1949), Gelitin (active since 1994), Sarah Lucas (born 1962), and Rose Wylie (born 1934). Drawing inspiration from Iggy Pop's 1977 song and Laurent Berlant's 2011 book, the exhibition critiques the optimism of capitalism while celebrating existence as an act of defiance.
Key facts
- The exhibition 'Lust for Life' is on view at Tim Van Laere Gallery in Rome.
- It features works by artists from different generations, including George Grosz, Rinus Van De Velde, Ben Sledsens, Franz West, Carroll Dunham, Gelitin, Sarah Lucas, and Rose Wylie.
- George Grosz's works in the show are 'Streit am Spieltisch' (1912), 'Waiting for Bettere Times' (1933), and 'The Invasion' (1947).
- Rinus Van De Velde previously had a solo exhibition at Tim Van Laere Gallery Rome in 2024.
- The exhibition title references Iggy Pop's 1977 song 'Lust for Life.'
- Laurent Berlant's 2011 book 'Cruel Optimism' is cited in relation to the show's themes.
- The show explores responses to societal fragility and global conflicts.
- It positions existence as an act of rebellion and creative desire.
Entities
Artists
- George Grosz
- Rinus Van De Velde
- Ben Sledsens
- Franz West
- Carroll Dunham
- Sarah Lucas
- Rose Wylie
- Iggy Pop
- Laurent Berlant
- Beatrice Andreani
Institutions
- Tim Van Laere Gallery
- Duke University Press
- Artribune
Locations
- Rome
- Italy
- Berlin
- Germany
- Leuven
- Belgium
- Vienna
- Austria
- United States
- London
- United Kingdom