At a time when monuments are being critically evaluated and reimagined, what draws millions worldwide to the Rocky statue near the Philadelphia Museum of Art? ‘Rising Up: Rocky and the Making of Monuments’ delves into over 2,000 years of artists’ fascination with boxing and fame. This exhibit features ancient sculptures, 19th-century European art, and images from America’s boxing heyday, along with modern pieces, illustrating how boxers have been immortalized as public icons.
In recent years, artists like Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Glenn Ligon, Hank Willis Thomas, and Lisa Brice have reexamined this narrative, focusing on themes of race, gender, and stardom. These artworks highlight the underdog qualities—resilience, spirit, and tenacity—that visitors associate with the Rocky statue, reflecting both the sport’s history and the broader human experience of struggle and ambition.
Curated by Paul Farber, Director and Co-Founder of Monument Lab and host of NPR/WHYY’s ‘The Statue’ podcast, ‘Rising Up’ features over 150 works by more than 50 artists. The exhibition provides an art historical perspective on the Rocky statue, illustrating how a movie prop evolved into a globally recognized public artwork. The accompanying publication, edited by Farber, includes insights from renowned Philadelphia artist Alex Da Corte, former NFL player Malcolm Jenkins, and film critic Carrie Rickey. Visitors can enjoy Pay What You Wish admission on Friday nights after 5 pm (ET). For further details, visit philamuseum.org.
