The estate of Carol Rama, a pivotal figure in 20th and 21st-century Italian art, will now be represented by Hauser & Wirth, alongside Galerie Isabella Bortolozzi, Berlin. This dual representation marks a significant step in broadening the reach and scholarship surrounding Rama’s complex and often provocative work, which explored themes of desire, eroticism and repression over a career spanning more than seven decades. The announcement, made on February 19, 2026, signals a renewed interest in Rama’s contributions to post-war art and her lasting influence on contemporary artists.
Rama, born in Turin, Italy, in 1918 and passing away in 2015, developed a highly individual artistic language. Her work defied easy categorization, blending elements of Surrealism, Abstract Expressionism, and Arte Povera. She often employed unconventional materials – rubber, fabric, and found objects – to create intensely personal and psychologically charged pieces. The artist’s exploration of the female body and sexuality, often presented with a raw and unflinching honesty, challenged societal norms and established artistic conventions. Understanding Carol Rama’s art requires acknowledging the historical context of post-war Italy and the evolving role of women in society.
A Legacy of Radical Expression
Hauser & Wirth’s decision to represent the estate underscores the growing recognition of Rama’s importance within the international art world. The gallery, known for its representation of prominent contemporary and modern artists, will work in collaboration with Galerie Isabella Bortolozzi, which has long championed Rama’s work. This partnership aims to facilitate a comprehensive re-evaluation of her oeuvre and introduce it to a wider audience. Galerie Isabella Bortolozzi has been instrumental in showcasing Rama’s work through numerous exhibitions, including “Against the Day” with photographs by Bepi Ghiotti in 2023 and “Ferite della memoria – selected works” in 2016, as documented on their website. Galerie Isabella Bortolozzi’s website provides a detailed exhibition history.
Rama’s artistic journey was marked by periods of both acclaim and relative obscurity. Despite receiving the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the 50th Venice Biennale in 2003, her work remained largely unknown outside of Italy for many years. Recent years, however, have witnessed a surge in critical attention, fueled by retrospective exhibitions and scholarly publications. The 2017 exhibition “Carol Rama – Antibodies” at the Novel Museum in New York, for example, played a crucial role in introducing her work to an American audience. Hauser & Wirth’s announcement highlights this growing international recognition.
Exhibitions and Recent Activity
The past few years have been particularly active for Rama’s estate, with a series of significant exhibitions across Europe and the United States. In 2025, her work was featured in “Carol Rama. Geniale sregolatezza” at the Fondazione Accorsi-Ometto – Museo di Arti Decorative in Turin, and “Carol Rama. THE TONGUE, THE EYE, THE FOOT” at the Aspen Art Museum in Colorado. Further exhibitions included “Carol Rama. Unique Multiples” at Villa delle Rose, MAMbo – Museo d’Arte Moderna di Bologna, and “Carol Rama: Rebellin der Moderne / A Rebel of Modernity” at the Kunstmuseum Bern. The Kunstmuseum Bern also hosted the exhibition in 2024 at the Schirn Kunsthalle in Frankfurt.
A detailed timeline of her exhibitions, available through Galerie Isabella Bortolozzi, reveals a consistent presence in Berlin, with shows dating back to 2009. These exhibitions demonstrate a sustained commitment to showcasing Rama’s work and fostering a deeper understanding of her artistic vision. The timeline includes shows like “Autorattristatrice” (2009) and “Inside Carol Rama” (2016), highlighting the breadth of her creative output.
The Future of Rama’s Work
With Hauser & Wirth and Galerie Isabella Bortolozzi now co-representing her estate, the future looks bright for Carol Rama’s legacy. The galleries’ combined resources and expertise will undoubtedly lead to increased visibility and scholarly engagement with her work. This representation is expected to facilitate further research, exhibitions, and publications, ensuring that Rama’s contributions to art history are fully recognized and appreciated. The collaboration also promises to bring her work to new audiences and inspire future generations of artists.
The next scheduled exhibition featuring Carol Rama’s work is “Carol Rama. Rebellin der Moderne / A Rebel of Modernity” currently on display at the Kunstmuseum Bern until July 13, 2025. Further details about upcoming exhibitions and initiatives related to the estate can be found on the Hauser & Wirth website and through Galerie Isabella Bortolozzi.
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