The Philadelphia Museum of Art is set to unveil a provocative new exhibition this weekend that places the iconic Rocky Balboa statue at its heart. This exploration of the influence and meaning of monuments spans over two millennia of boxing and celebrity culture, inviting visitors to reconsider what these structures represent in a contemporary context. The exhibit, titled *Rising Up: Rocky and the Making of Monuments*, seeks to delve into the layers of significance surrounding this beloved figure, drawing connections between the heroic narratives we celebrate and the realities of those often overlooked.
A Cultural Icon in the Spotlight
The Rocky statue, immortalised in bronze and gracing the famous “Rocky Steps” since 1982, emerges as one of Philadelphia’s most visited landmarks. An estimated four million people flock to this site annually, eager to snap photographs and mimic the triumphant pose of Sylvester Stallone’s fictional boxer. Paul Farber, the exhibition’s curator and co-founder of Monument Lab, a Philadelphia-based public art initiative, emphasises the statue’s enduring appeal.
“No matter the time or season, there’s always a line of admirers,” he shared with ArtNews. “In fact, the number of visitors rivals that of the Statue of Liberty, surpassing even the Liberty Bell.” Farber regards the statue as a “cultural meeting ground” where individuals connect through shared experiences of hardship and resilience. Yet, he raises a critical point: Rocky, the mythical champion, is a white character, which starkly contrasts with the history of many Black boxers who have made significant contributions to their communities.
A Reflective Anniversary
This exhibition coincides with the 50th anniversary of the *Rocky* franchise, which features six films, including the latest, *Rocky Balboa*. The museum aims to explore why this particular statue captivates millions, especially at a time when the significance of monuments is increasingly scrutinised. The artist’s enduring question of why fighters have historically been elevated to public icons serves as a focal point for the show.
With an array of historical and contemporary works, the exhibition juxtaposes ancient sculptures, like the Hellenistic Seated Boxer, with images from boxing’s golden age in America. Notable figures such as Jack Johnson, the first Black world heavyweight boxing champion, are highlighted alongside modern artists like Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, and Jean-Michel Basquiat. The show culminates with the statue from the 1982 film *Rocky III*, which has become a symbol of triumph and perseverance.
The Complex Relationship with Art
Louis Marchesano, the museum’s deputy director of curatorial affairs, reflects on the tumultuous journey of the Rocky statue. Initially viewed as a mere movie prop, its status has evolved dramatically over the years. “We once fought to have it removed,” he admitted, revealing the institution’s ambivalence towards the statue’s artistic merit.
Stallone himself has expressed his deep connection to the statue, leaving heartfelt voicemails for Farber, describing the museum steps as “a magical area.” He articulated how Rocky’s journey from poverty to success is epitomised by his ascent up those very steps, which represent aspiration and achievement, albeit against a backdrop of struggle and hardship.
The Artist’s Dilemma
The creator of the Rocky statue, A. Thomas Schomberg, grapples with the question of whether his work is a legitimate piece of art or merely a cinematic prop. Farber spent considerable time with Schomberg, exploring his artistic process, which reveals a complex relationship between commercialism and artistry. “They could have opted for a styrofoam prop,” Farber noted, “but instead, they chose to work with a renowned artist skilled in bronze.”
This provides a rich tapestry for discussion within the exhibition, challenging visitors to rethink their perceptions of art and the stories monuments tell.
Why it Matters
This exhibition serves as a critical examination of how we commemorate cultural narratives, particularly in an era where monuments are scrutinised for their historical and social implications. By placing the Rocky statue within a broader context of boxing, celebrity, and community, the Philadelphia Museum of Art invites us to reflect on our collective memories and the figures we choose to elevate. In doing so, it highlights the need for inclusivity and recognition of diverse histories, reminding us that the stories we celebrate often shape our identity as a society.
