Photo Credit: Getty Images
Mark Zuckerberg has once again found himself at the center of public debate, but this time it’s not about social media or technology. Instead, it’s a seven-foot-tall statue of his wife, Priscilla Chan, that he commissioned from New York-based artist Daniel Arsham. The sculpture, which Zuckerberg proudly revealed on Instagram, blends classical influences with modern materials, showcasing Chan mid-stride in a green and silver finish that evokes both ancient Roman and Greek art styles.
Zuckerberg captioned the post with a light-hearted nod to history, claiming he was “bringing back the Roman tradition of making sculptures of your wife.” The sculpture, which features Chan with a flowing, wing-like cloak reminiscent of the Winged Victory of Samothrace, has been praised for its craftsmanship but has also sparked a debate about its artistic value and the broader implications of such a commission.
The reactions from the Bay Area art scene have been varied. Jessica Silverman, a well-known gallery owner, admired the technical execution of the statue, highlighting its strong fabrication and suggesting it provides a rare glimpse into the humor and affection within the otherwise private Chan-Zuckerberg relationship. Silverman noted that the gesture of immortalizing one’s spouse in such a grand manner might seem sweet, even if it is something she personally wouldn’t do.
However, not everyone shared this positive outlook. Max Blue, an art critic, questioned the originality of the piece and the decision to commission Arsham, a non-local artist, for the work. Blue argued that this choice reflects a missed opportunity to support the local art community, especially considering the long-standing tension between Silicon Valley’s tech elite and the San Francisco art world. This sentiment echoes broader criticisms of the tech industry’s often lukewarm relationship with local culture.
Moreover, some see Zuckerberg’s invocation of Roman tradition as somewhat forced and superficial. Critics argue that while the statue might be technically impressive, it lacks depth and fails to offer significant insight into Chan’s character or their relationship beyond the surface level.
In the end, Zuckerberg’s statue of Chan has become more than just a personal tribute; it’s a lightning rod for discussions about art, wealth, and cultural patronage in the tech age. Whether seen as a sincere gesture or an extravagant display, the sculpture has certainly succeeded in making people talk. As Zuckerberg continues to explore the intersection of technology and art, only time will tell how his contributions will be remembered.
