The world of art is a bit like a car race: there are those who are content to follow the pack, and those who take sharp turns at full speed. Maurizio Cattelan, the famous Italian artist, belongs to the latter category. In 2026, he will receive the Preis der Nationalgalerie, a prestigious award that celebrates his boldness and unbridled creativity. An event not to be missed, especially with BMW as a partner, which, like a good engine, has been driving this initiative since 2006.
An artist with an inimitable style
Maurizio Cattelan is somewhat of a joker in the world of contemporary art. His works, oscillating between biting humour and deep social reflection, remind us how art can be both accessible and bewildering. Think of a clown wearing a tie: he makes you laugh while evoking serious themes. Since the 1990s, Cattelan has created memorable sculptures and installations, such as his famous “Him” — a figure of a schoolboy in prayer with the face of Adolf Hitler — which questions our relationship with authority and guilt. In a world where art is often considered elitist, his creations are reminiscent of a sports car weaving through traffic: they attract attention and compel reflection.
By receiving this award, Cattelan is not only celebrating his career; he is also reconnecting with Berlin, a city that has been marked by his provocative actions. In 2006, he co-organised the 4th Berlin Biennale, establishing the German capital as a nerve centre of contemporary art. This new exhibition at the Neue Nationalgalerie is therefore a return to his roots for an artist whose works interrogate social and political structures with biting irony.
A creative partnership with BMW
BMW and Maurizio Cattelan share an artistic love story that dates back to 2016. Remember the moment when the artist wrapped a BMW i3 in a protective film inspired by spaghetti? A work that made people smile while raising questions about consumption and sustainability. Like a good plate of al dente pasta, this collaboration combines taste and reflection. With over fifty years of cultural commitment, BMW knows how to blend innovation and creativity. Their partnerships are like perfectly fitted mechanical parts in the engine of a racing car: each plays its role in driving the vehicle towards excellence.
BMW’s support for the Preis der Nationalgalerie since 2006 underscores their belief that art can inspire social change. In a world where autonomous cars are beginning to take the wheel, it is essential to keep the creative spirit in the driver’s seat. This year’s award will be presented at a flamboyant ceremony during Berlin Art Week in September 2026. The evening promises to be as captivating as a night race at the Nürburgring.
Contemporary issues in Cattelan’s art
Cattelan’s works do not merely shock; they challenge conventions while posing crucial questions about our society. His art addresses themes such as power, memory, and collective responsibility with a deceptive lightness. Imagine a sports car that hides a hybrid engine under its hood: it looks beautiful and fast, but it is also aware of current environmental issues. Similarly, Cattelan’s creations oscillate between provocation and poetry, exposing the inherent contradictions of our humanity.
His exhibition at the Neue Nationalgalerie will offer a deep dive into these artistic reflections, like an exhilarating exploration of a winding circuit. The iconic building designed by Mies van der Rohe serves as the perfect backdrop to host his complex works, reflecting the tensions between modernity and tradition. By highlighting contemporary issues within a historically rich framework, Cattelan invites the public to reflect on their own role in the grand picture of our time.
A look towards the future
As we head towards 2026, it is undeniable that the Preis der Nationalgalerie has evolved over the years to become a vital springboard for contemporary artists. Like a good engine tune-up before an important race, this award continues to encourage creativity while echoing current societal challenges. The decision to honour artists whose work has not yet been widely presented in Berlin is a breath of fresh air in an artistic landscape often saturated with already established voices.
This is where the strength of the award lies: it not only celebrates current art but also contributes to shaping the future of the international art scene. With influential figures like Emma Lavigne and Sam Keller on the jury, bold choices can be expected that will provoke thought and discussion. Ultimately, shouldn’t art be an invitation to dialogue? And what better than a touch of irony to spice up that conversation? Shedding light on Cattelan’s works is thus a way to pave the way for a future where art and society will continue to evolve hand in hand.
