Kenny Scharf's largest solo exhibition, 'Emotional,' has opened at the Modern Art Museum (MAM) Shanghai. This marks his debut in China, showcasing over five decades of his work. The exhibition features more than 120 multidisciplinary pieces, exploring Scharf's depictions of emotion through vivid iconography.
The exhibition, curated by Shai Baitel, spans three floors and includes the immersive 'Beach Club' installation. It merges ancient pictographic traditions with modern emoji culture, highlighting Scharf's unique visual language. The show is organized into thematic sections such as Anger, Disgust, Fear, Happiness, Sadness, and Awe, offering an interactive emotional journey.
A key feature is the 'Beach Club,' transforming a museum floor into a Venice Beach-inspired escape. Visitors can engage with paddleball games, vintage surfboards, and skateboards adorned with Scharf's pop-art motifs. The exhibition also includes celebrated series like 'Facial Illustrations' and 'Cosmic Cavern,' reflecting Scharf's exploration of sci-fi, animation, and pop culture influences.
Scharf's 'Art Cars,' inspired by the hippie movement, add an unconventional dimension to his work. 'Emotional' presents a comprehensive view of Scharf's artistic evolution. It underscores his influence on the global art scene through its exploration of emotion and culture.