The artwork “Michael Jackson and Bubbles” by Jeff Koons is a ceramic sculpture belonging to the Neo-Pop Art movement. Currently housed at the Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art in Oslo, Norway, this piece is a notable example of contemporary sculpture.
The artwork portrays a life-size depiction of the famous entertainer, Michael Jackson, and his pet chimpanzee, Bubbles. The sculpture features a vibrant color palette with predominant use of gold and white, accentuating the figures’ opulent attire and their serene expressions. Jackson is depicted with his arm around Bubbles, seated in a relaxed, intertwined posture. The piece captures an intimate and almost idyllic moment between the two, underscored by Koons’ characteristic blend of kitsch aesthetic and detailed craftsmanship. This portrayal simultaneously evokes a sense of nostalgia and critique of celebrity culture, making it a quintessential piece in Koons’ oeuvre and the Neo-Pop Art genre.
