This weekend, the Philadelphia Museum of Art unveils an intriguing exhibition that delves into the cultural significance of monuments through the lens of one of cinema’s most iconic figures—Rocky Balboa. The exhibition, titled *Rising Up: Rocky and the Making of Monuments*, not only celebrates the fictional boxer portrayed by Sylvester Stallone but also explores the complex narratives surrounding public art and its role in society.
A Monument to the Underdog
Since its installation in 1982, the Rocky statue has become a beloved landmark on the museum’s steps, attracting approximately four million visitors each year. This remarkable footfall rivals that of renowned attractions like the Statue of Liberty, highlighting the statue’s status as a cultural beacon.
Curator Paul Farber, co-founder of Monument Lab—a non-profit organisation dedicated to reimagining public art—has spearheaded the exhibition. He reflects on how the statue transcends its origins as a mere movie prop and evolves into a symbol of resilience and hope for many who visit it. “It’s a site of global pilgrimage for people finding a way through pain and difficulty,” Farber remarked, underscoring Rocky’s role as the “patron saint of the underdog”. However, he also notes a critical perspective: the mythology surrounding this white boxer stands in stark contrast to the many Black boxers from Philadelphia who have shaped the sport and their communities.
A Historical Context
The exhibition coincides with the 50th anniversary of the *Rocky* franchise, and aims to answer a pressing question: Why does this fictional character resonate so deeply with millions around the world? To explore this, the exhibition draws parallels between Rocky and historical figures in combat sports, showcasing ancient sculptures alongside modern interpretations.
Among the highlights are works featuring boxing legends like Jack Johnson, the first Black heavyweight champion, as well as contributions from contemporary artists such as Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat. This diverse array of artwork serves to illustrate how fighters have been mythologised throughout history, establishing their place in the pantheon of public figures.
The Evolution of a Cultural Icon
The relationship between the statue and the museum has not always been harmonious. Louis Marchesano, the museum’s deputy director of curatorial affairs, acknowledges that there was a time when the statue was viewed with skepticism. “We had a very fraught relationship with a statue that started off as a movie prop,” he admitted, hinting at the complex dynamics surrounding public perception of art and its implications.
Stallone himself has shared his reflections on the significance of the steps where the statue stands. He describes them as a “magical area”, akin to great monuments like the Acropolis, emphasising the symbolic journey of Rocky overcoming adversity. The steps are not just a backdrop; they define the essence of his character, representing the triumph over hardship.
The Intersection of Art and Popular Culture
As the exhibition unfolds, it raises questions about the nature of art itself. Is the Rocky statue a genuine work of art, or merely a cinematic relic? Farber highlights this ambiguity, noting that even A. Thomas Schomberg, the sculptor behind the bronze statue, grapples with this distinction. “It haunted me,” Farber admits, revealing the complexities at play when art and popular culture intersect.
This exploration prompts visitors to consider the broader implications of monuments: who they celebrate, who they exclude, and how they shape collective memory.
Why it Matters
*Rising Up: Rocky and the Making of Monuments* is more than an exhibition; it is a critical examination of how we memorialise figures in popular culture and the narratives we choose to uplift. In a time where the significance of monuments is under intense scrutiny, this exhibition invites us to reflect on the stories we tell and the legacies we honour. It challenges us to reassess who we celebrate in our public spaces and what those choices reveal about our society.
