In 2025, the art world has witnessed a remarkable tribute to the groundbreaking career of abstract expressionist master Willem de Kooning through the critically acclaimed exhibition “Endless Painting” held at the prestigious Gagosian Gallery in New York. Running from April 15 to June 14, this exhibition offers a stunning survey spanning five decades of de Kooning’s prolific practice. As emphasized in a May 2025 review by The Washington Post, the show stands as a testament to de Kooning’s profound and lasting influence on modern and contemporary art.
Revisiting a Master of Abstraction and Figuration
“Endless Painting” was curated by Cecilia Alemani, director and chief curator of High Line Art, whose innovative approach eschewed chronological constraints in favor of thematic dialogue across periods. The exhibition presents over two dozen paintings alongside two monumental sculptures—Clamdigger (1972) and Standing Figure (1969-84)—the latter displayed indoors for the first time in nearly 30 years. This innovative curation illuminates de Kooning’s lifelong interrogation of form and color through a dynamic interplay between painting and sculpture.
De Kooning, central to the Abstract Expressionism movement, is celebrated for his emotive “color field” explorations and his oscillation between abstraction and figuration. His visual vocabulary evolved continually, incorporating both aggression and lyricism, as captured in gestures and layered brushwork. The exhibition features key works like Woman as Landscape (1954-55), which set his auction record of $68.9 million, underscoring his enduring market prominence.
For detailed insights into the exhibition and de Kooning’s artistic evolution, visit Gagosian’s official exhibition page and curator Cecilia Alemani’s reflections on the show.
Critical Acclaim and Global Art Discourse
Critics and art historians alike have lauded the exhibition for revealing the complexity and vitality of de Kooning’s work. The Brooklyn Rail describes it as “extraordinary and revelatory,” offering a rare opportunity to witness the artist’s continuous self-reinvention and his intricate approach to the human form.
The Washington Post’s May 2025 review particularly highlights the exhibition’s ability to capture de Kooning’s restless exploration, noting the “stunning” arrangement of works that showcase his layered techniques and the emotional depth contained within rough, evocative passages. This aligns with the curatorial philosophy to present de Kooning’s paintings as part of a larger, evolving conversation rather than fixed moments in art history.
The exhibition attracted attention from platforms such as Daily Art Fair and The Art Newspaper, amplifying its significance in contemporary painting discourse.
The Sculptural Dimension: Expanding De Kooning’s Vision
“Endless Painting” showcases how de Kooning’s sculptural work embodies similar tensions between abstraction and figuration found in his canvases. Works like the bronze Standing Figure reveal his probing of human anatomy and form in three dimensions, offering fresh perspectives on his creative legacy.
This aspect of the exhibition enriches understanding of how de Kooning blurred medium boundaries. The integration of paintings and sculptures creates a multidimensional experience that invites visitors to consider his lifelong “struggle with the human form” in new ways.
Artistic Legacy and Auction Highlights
De Kooning’s influence pervades the art world, sustained by critical study and strong market performance. His paintings remain among the most sought-after on the market, as seen in record sales reported by Christie’s and Artsy. The “Endless Painting” exhibition, by featuring works loaned from institutions like the Museum of Modern Art and Guggenheim, also demonstrates the institutional recognition of his historical importance.
Exhibition-related talks and programs, held in partnership with Gagosian, have furthered public engagement with de Kooning’s oeuvre, emphasizing his relevance to artists today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the “Endless Painting” exhibition about?
It is a comprehensive showcase of Willem de Kooning’s work from 1944 to 1986, focusing on recurring motifs and his interplay between abstraction and figuration, featuring paintings and sculptures.
Q2: Where and when was the exhibition held?
At Gagosian Gallery, 555 West 24th Street, New York City, from April 15 to June 14, 2025.
Q3: Who curated the show?
The exhibition was curated by Cecilia Alemani, director and chief curator of High Line Art.
Q4: What makes this exhibition unique compared to previous retrospectives?
It introduces a non-chronological, dialogue-based layout that connects works from different decades, highlighting de Kooning’s evolving visual language and overlapping themes.
Q5: What are some highlighted works in the exhibition?
Notable works include Woman as Landscape (1954-55), Clamdigger (1972), and the bronze sculpture Standing Figure (1969-84).
Q6: Where can I find more information or view images of the exhibition?
Visit Gagosian’s exhibition page, The Brooklyn Rail review, and Daily Art Fair for reviews and images.
Willem de Kooning’s “Endless Painting” at Gagosian Gallery reaffirms his position as a vital figure whose expressive and restless creativity transcends time. The exhibition not only honors his legacy but continues to inspire contemporary dialogues around the possibilities of painting and sculpture.