Artist
Born in Montreal, Canada
Chloe Wise: A Playful Deconstruction of Contemporary Culture
Montreal-born Chloe Wise has emerged as a compelling voice in contemporary art, captivating audiences with her distinctive blend of sculpture, painting, and video work. Her practice is characterized by a remarkably astute and often humorous interrogation of consumer culture, wellness trends, and the construction of identity – all rendered through strikingly intimate and meticulously detailed imagery. Based in New York City, Wise’s career has swiftly gained recognition, marked by both gallery exhibitions and collaborations with prominent designers and brands.
Born in 1990, Wise's artistic journey began at Concordia University in Montreal, where she earned a Fine Arts and Art History degree. This academic foundation, combined with an innate visual sensibility, quickly propelled her towards exploring the intersection of art and everyday life. Her early work demonstrated a fascination with still life arrangements, particularly those centered around food – a recurring motif that has become synonymous with her style. However, Wise’s approach transcends mere representation; she doesn't simply depict objects but rather uses them as vehicles to explore broader cultural anxieties and desires.
The Language of Objects: Bread, Bags, and Beyond
Wise is perhaps best known for her series of sculptures featuring bread – a humble yet surprisingly complex subject. Beginning with the “Bagel No. 5” in 2014, she created urethane replicas of various loaves, meticulously adorned with designer labels reminiscent of luxury handbags. This initial piece, a bagel sculpted to resemble a Chanel purse and complete with a chain and charm, immediately established her signature style: a playful juxtaposition of the familiar and the aspirational. The sculpture’s creation sparked considerable discussion about the blurring lines between art and design, and even raised questions about whether it was a genuine Chanel product – a testament to the arresting nature of her work.
This series evolved into “Ain't No Challah Back Girl,” a braided challah loaf sculpted in the style of a Prada backpack, and other iterations featuring Louis Vuitton baguette molds. These pieces aren’t merely replicas; they are carefully constructed narratives that comment on the obsession with luxury brands and their pervasive influence on our desires. The use of urethane allows for incredible detail, mirroring the textures and patterns found on high-end goods while simultaneously highlighting their artificiality. Wise's work is a clever critique of consumerism, presented with an undeniable sense of humor.
Themes of Identity and Observation
Beyond the surface appeal of her sculptures, Wise’s art delves into deeper themes of identity formation and the pressures of contemporary life. Her paintings frequently feature intimate portraits of friends – often models and photographers like Richie Shazam – presented alongside trompe-l'oeil chandeliers or romaine lettuce covered in Caesar dressing. These juxtapositions create a surreal atmosphere, prompting viewers to consider the carefully constructed facades we present to the world.
Wise’s work is deeply influenced by concepts of “pronkstillevens,” a term referring to paintings that playfully subvert traditional artistic conventions. She embraces a satirical approach, using humor and irony to expose the absurdities of modern culture while simultaneously maintaining an underlying sense of sincerity. Her recurring references to Don DeLillo's White Noise further underscore this thematic exploration – a meditation on the anxieties of a hyper-mediated world.
Exhibitions and Recognition
Wise’s career has been marked by a series of significant exhibitions, both solo and group shows. She has showcased her work with Almine Rech Gallery in Paris, London, and New York, cementing her position as an emerging artist to watch. Notable exhibitions include “Of False Beaches and Butter Money” (2017), “Lineup” (2019), “Not That We Don’t” (2019), “Second Nature” (2020), “Thank You For The Nice Fire” (2021), and “And Everything Was True” (2019). Her work has been featured in collections such as the Julia Stoschek Collection, the Hammer Museum, and the National Gallery of Canada. In 2019, she collaborated with designer Simon Porte Jacquemus on a Spring campaign, further expanding her reach and influence.
Chloe Wise’s art is not simply visually arresting; it's an astute commentary on our times – a playful yet pointed examination of the objects we covet, the identities we construct, and the cultural landscape in which we navigate. Her unique voice and distinctive style ensure that she will continue to be a significant figure in contemporary art for years to come.
Museum
On show in Brescia, Italy
A Journey Through Time: Palazzo Monti’s Enduring Legacy
Stepping through the unassuming doorway of Palazzo Monti in Brescia is not merely entering a museum; it's embarking on an immersive journey into the very soul of Lombardy. This isn’t simply a repository of art and artifacts, but rather a living testament to centuries of history, artistic evolution, and the vibrant spirit of Brescia itself. The palace, dating back to the 13th century with significant Renaissance embellishments, stands as a remarkably preserved architectural marvel – its ornate facades hinting at the grandeur within, while the interior whispers tales of ambition, resilience, and enduring creativity.
Initially conceived as a fortified residence for a prominent Brescian family, Palazzo Monti’s story is inextricably linked to the city's own. It witnessed pivotal moments in Italian history – from the tumultuous years of the Unification to the rise of contemporary art. Today, it functions as both a museum and an artist residency program, fostering a dynamic dialogue between past and present. The building’s very structure—its layered history and evolving spaces—contributes profoundly to its captivating atmosphere, offering visitors a truly unique experience that transcends traditional museum viewing.
Echoes of Masters: Canaletto and Beyond
The collection at Palazzo Monti is a carefully curated tapestry woven from threads of regional pride and artistic brilliance. While the palace rightfully celebrates the evocative Venetian landscapes of Giovanni Antonio Canal, better known as Canaletto – his shimmering waterways and meticulously rendered architectural details providing a window into a bygone era – it deliberately avoids limiting itself to celebrated masters. Instead, Palazzo Monti masterfully interweaves these iconic works with a rich array of artifacts that illuminate Brescia’s own distinct narrative.
Rare historical documents, including manuscripts detailing the city's crucial role in the Unification of Italy, offer a powerful connection to the nation’s formative years. Beyond paintings and parchment, intricate sculptures crafted by local artisans – reflecting the region’s rich tradition of craftsmanship – and meticulously preserved domestic objects reveal the skill and artistry passed down through generations. This dedication to showcasing Brescia's unique cultural heritage distinguishes Palazzo Monti, offering visitors a nuanced understanding of Italian traditions that extends far beyond the typical tourist experience. The palace doesn’t simply display art; it tells stories—stories of ambition, resilience, and an enduring creative spirit.
A Palace Forged in Time: Architecture and Artistic Hub
The very fabric of Palazzo Monti contributes significantly to its captivating allure. Its origins trace back to the 13th century, with substantial Renaissance embellishments adding layers of opulence and sophistication. The palace’s façade is a testament to the artistic achievements of past eras, adorned with intricate detailing that draws the eye upwards. The building's history is inextricably linked to Brescia’s own narrative; it has served as a silent witness to centuries of change, reflecting triumphs and tribulations alike.
Today, this historical framework provides an inspiring backdrop for contemporary artists in residence, fostering a dynamic dialogue between past and present. The palace isn't just in Brescia; it is Brescia – a potent symbol of the city’s enduring spirit and cultural richness. The establishment of the artist residency program in 2017 has dramatically enriched this environment, transforming the palace into a vibrant incubator for creativity. Over 250 artists from fifty countries have found inspiration within its walls, producing works that reflect both their individual visions and the unique character of Brescia.
Contemporary Creativity: A Living Cultural Hub
What truly sets Palazzo Monti apart is its seamless blend of art, history, and contemporary practice. Unlike many museums that focus on a single discipline or period, here, these elements converge to create a holistic experience. The palace’s role as an artist residency program ensures that it remains a vital force in the cultural landscape, continually evolving while honoring its historical roots.
The current exhibitions often showcase works created by resident artists alongside the permanent collection, offering visitors a dynamic and engaging perspective. The space is frequently used for workshops and events, further solidifying Palazzo Monti’s position as a thriving center for artistic expression. It's a place where history isn’t confined to dusty display cases but breathes life into the present, inviting exploration and sparking imagination – whether you are an avid collector seeking inspiration, an interior designer searching for unique aesthetic references, or simply someone curious about Italian heritage.
Find this online
topimpressionists.com/en/art/download/chloe-wise-untitled-DAR88C-en/
Cite this artwork
- MLA
- Wise, Chloe. Untitled. n.d., Palazzo Monti. https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/chloe-wise-untitled-DAR88C-en/
- APA
- Wise, Chloe (n.d.). Untitled [Painting]. Palazzo Monti. https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/chloe-wise-untitled-DAR88C-en/
- Chicago
- Chloe Wise. Untitled. n.d. Palazzo Monti. https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/chloe-wise-untitled-DAR88C-en/
- Harvard
- Wise, Chloe (n.d.) Untitled. Palazzo Monti. Available at: https://topimpressionists.com/en/art/chloe-wise-untitled-DAR88C-en/
