Alberto Giacometti’s Surrealism Explored in New Max Ernst Museum Exhibition

The Max Ernst Museum Brühl of the LVR is hosting a groundbreaking exhibition dedicated to the work of Swiss sculptor, painter, and draughtsman Alberto Giacometti. Running from September 1, 2024, to January 15, 2025, the exhibition, organized in collaboration with the Fondation Giacometti in Paris, uniquely explores the artist’s contributions to Surrealism while spotlighting his enduring creative relationship with fellow artist Max Ernst.

Alberto Giacometti (1901–1966) is celebrated as one of the most innovative modern artists, especially known for his elongated sculptures crafted in the aftermath of World War II. However, this exhibition brings a fresh focus to his lesser-known surrealist period in the 1930s when he was actively involved with the Parisian Surrealist movement led by André Breton. During this time, Giacometti’s work examined the depths of the unconscious, as well as themes related to aggressive and sexual impulses, and the ambiguity of symbolic imagery.

Coinciding with the centennial celebration of Surrealism, the exhibition showcases Giacometti’s continued engagement with surrealist ideas even after his formal break from the movement in 1935. It also explores how these ideas persisted in his post-war works. Giacometti’s connection with Max Ernst, who shared neighboring studios in Paris in the 1930s, is also a focal point of the exhibit. The two artists, who remained lifelong friends, influenced each other’s creative development during their early years in the surrealist scene.

The exhibition features over 70 works by Giacometti, including iconic sculptures such as The Couple (1926), Spoon Woman (1927), Suspended Ball (1930), Disagreeable Object (1931), The Nose (1949), and The Cage (1949–1950). Alongside Giacometti’s works, the exhibition also displays select pieces by Max Ernst, offering a visual dialogue between the two artists. Additionally, photographs and archival materials further illuminate the creative and personal ties between the men.

Curated by Dr. Friederike Voßkamp, Head of Collection at the Max Ernst Museum Brühl des LVR, and Laura Braverman, Associate Curator at the Fondation Giacometti, the exhibition is accompanied by a richly illustrated trilingual catalogue. The catalogue features essays by leading scholars including Laura Braverman, Madeleine Frey, Friederike Voßkamp, and Jürgen Wilhelm, providing deeper insights into Giacometti’s surrealist oeuvre and his relationship with Ernst.

The exhibition offers an unprecedented opportunity for visitors to explore Giacometti’s surrealist legacy and his lasting influence on 20th-century art through the lens of friendship, collaboration, and creative exchange.