Kenny Scharf | Madrid, 29 September 2026 – 17 January 2027

At the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, Kenny Scharf’s colourful universe blurs the boundaries between pop art and surrealism

Bright colours, fantastical creatures and references to popular culture define the artistic universe of Kenny Scharf. From 29 September 2026 to 17 January 2027, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum in Madrid presents an exhibition dedicated to the American artist, a leading figure in New York’s East Village art scene during the 1980s. Alongside Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring, and influenced by his mentor Andy Warhol, Scharf helped shape a new visual language that challenged traditional artistic hierarchies. His work combines surrealist imagery with elements drawn from everyday life, creating vibrant compositions that are both playful and thought-provoking.

The exhibition is part of the museum’s programme dedicated to the Blanca and Borja Thyssen-Bornemisza Collection. Scharf’s practice spans painting, sculpture, installations, murals, performance and fashion, reflecting his desire to make art dynamic, accessible and unconventional. To describe his distinctive approach, the artist coined the term “pop surrealism”, bringing together the energy of pop culture and the imagination of surrealism. His participation in the Whitney Biennial in 1985 marked the beginning of his international recognition. Since then, his work has entered the collections of major museums across the United States, Brazil, Germany, the Netherlands and Japan. The exhibition offers an opportunity to explore an artistic vision that continues to challenge conventions through colour, humour and boundless imagination.