Hans Haacke, a German-born artist living in New York since 1965, has dedicated his career to exploring the often uneasy relationships between the art world and the realms of power, money, politics, and business. His compelling bronze sculpture, Gift Horse (2014), stands as a powerful example of this exploration.
Originally commissioned for London’s Fourth Plinth project in Trafalgar Square, Gift Horse occupies a historically significant space. The plinth was initially intended for an equestrian statue of King William IV but remained vacant due to funding issues. Since 1999, it has served as a platform for temporary artworks by contemporary artists. Haacke drew inspiration from an engraving by George Stubbs, the renowned British equine artist, to create his imposing sculpture. The result is a skeletal bronze horse, towering over 15 feet tall, a stark and thought-provoking presence. In its initial London setting, Gift Horse was strategically positioned across from a statue of King George IV on horseback, engaging in a visual dialogue with traditional equestrian monuments while subverting their celebratory intent.
Hans Haacke's Gift Horse Sculpture at the Art Institute of Chicago, a bronze skeleton adorned with an LED ribbon displaying stock market prices, critiquing the link between art and finance.
A prominent feature of Gift Horse is the large bow encircling the horse’s right leg, instantly bringing to mind the ribbons on gift-wrapped presents. Embedded within this bow are LED lights that continuously scroll real-time stock market prices from a leading national exchange. This striking juxtaposition of artistic form and financial data underscores Haacke’s central theme: the inextricable link between art and finance. As Haacke himself stated, “I’ve always been interested in systems and how they work. Political and social systems, of course, are part of that. They can’t be escaped.”
The installation of Gift Horse on the Bluhm Family Terrace at the Art Institute of Chicago marked the sculpture’s North American debut, bringing its powerful message to a new audience.
This exhibition is generously supported by the Bluhm Family Endowment Fund, dedicated to showcasing modern and contemporary sculpture.
