Rocco Ritchie Presents “The Tourist”, an Exhibition Backed by Giorgio Armani
The son of Madonna and filmmaker Guy Ritchie, Rocco Ritchie has forged himself a name in the art scene. Last weekend, at the height of Paris Art Week, Ritchie welcomed friends and family to discover an exhibition featuring a selection of his works.
The paintings result from a process involving both intentional and haphazard choices, blending private photographs and archives of his public life, whose childhood is largely documented by the press. The artist explores the role of the paparazzi, whose stolen shots have immortalized a significant part of his life. From Richard Hamilton, Gerhard Richter and William Klein to Andy Warhol, artists have constantly sought to immortalise fleeting images from the mass media. The paintings in the exhibition ‘The Tourist’, play on the principle of separation and/or fusion between private and public.
With this approach, the role of the paparazzi is subverted and so are their photographs, which reinterpreted by Rocco, become personal. After completing his studies at Central Martins and the Royal Drawing School in London, he participated in the New York League to improve his technique. This year, he has presented his works in London, Miami and the Palazzo Reale, in Milan, where he also delivered a unique live performance. This is the very first exhibition in Paris for Rocco.
In line with their commitment towards emerging artists, Giorgio Armani is endorsing this exhibition, curated by Jessica Draper. During the exhibition opening, followed by an intimate dinner, we crossed paths with Ahmad Kontar, William Goodge, Peter John, Joanne Palmaro, César Domboy, Sofia de Moser Leitao, Benoît Ponsaillé, Paolo Luka-Noé, and Matteo Frascari.
Photos: Jean Picon.
