A Coke Zero, logo-laden clothing, and elongated figures are just some of the elements that populate the world of David Rappeneau—a mysterious artist who seems to speak Gen Z’s language. His Instagram handle, @mitsubishi_ufj_financial_group, seems tailor-made to mislead anyone trying to learn more about this enigmatic artist who works with Gladstone Gallery. According to the page dedicated to him by the gallery, the only certain thing about Rappeneau is his nationality: French.
In an interview with Artnet, Gladstone Gallery director Cooke Maroney talks about his relationship with Rappeneau and how he seems to be wildly popular with Gen Z, who show up to his exhibitions “as if there were a band playing.” A rare phenomenon in the art world—and one that immediately piqued our curiosity.
The elongated forms inhabiting David Rappeneau’s works seem almost suffocated by the sheet that contains them—so thin, nearly skin and bone—and they are also distinguished by what they wear. From skimpy tops with a cheap look to low-rise trousers cinched with a Dolce & Gabbana belt. A few accessories here and there make clear the presence (and perhaps the critique) of a luxury world that Gen Z is making its own.
The eyes of these characters, as Kate Brown notes on Artnet, seem to be drawn in a Modigliani-like manner and captivate the viewer. Depicted in groups, the souls that inhabit these drawings appear in a state of isolation that is hard to digest. Alone yet together, immersed in a context that recalls club culture—or the worst kind of suburban nightclub.
When, this summer, Rappeneau wrote on Instagram, “I woke up today deeply wanting to stop making art,” many wondered why. The decision was then retracted fairly quickly, yet it still sent a signal. Presence, absence, and anonymity are highly delicate themes that—when associated with an artist like David Rappeneau—prompt us to reflect on the dynamics of creativity, which are equally fascinating and addictive. Knowing that the entire management of his artistic career happens via email thus feels like a timelessly creative approach—yet one that is increasingly appealing to those who inhabit this time.
