We are excited to announce that in Feb 2023 HOTA will present our first ever international blockbuster exhibition. The world premiere exhibition, Pop Masters: Art from the Mugrabi Collection, New York will open on 18 Feb 2023 right here on the Gold Coast. Drawn entirely from the famed private collection of one of the world’s most prominent art collectors, Jose Mugrabi, the blockbuster exhibition celebrates the origins and on-going legacy of Pop Art.

In a world first exhibition, Pop Masters: Art from the Mugrabi Collection, New York will present more than 40 works never-before-seen in Australia by legendary artists including Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring and Andy Warhol alongside works by Katherine Bernhardt, Kwesi Botchway, George Condo, Damien Hirst, KAWS, Joel Mesler, Richard Prince, Tom Sachs, Julian Schnabel, Mickalene Thomas and Tom Wesselmann.

The exhibition will spotlight works by legends of the 1970’s and 80’s scene Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring in conversation with contemporary artists at the forefront of the genre today. Over 10 works by the pioneer of Pop Art Andy Warhol will introduce visitors to the exhibition, including iconic portraits such as Sixteen Jackies (1964) and his deeply personal painting, Cross (1982).

Recognising the connections between Pop Art and Street Art, works from Keith Haring include one of his earliest works from 1979 alongside Untitled (Dancing Dogs). Shining a light on one of the late 20th century’s most important artists Jean-Michel Basquiat, works include the iconic painting New York, New York (1981) and a collaboration between Warhol and Basquiat.

A contemporary highlight on display includes work by KAWS including the 2.8 metre tall sculpture What Party (2018).

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said: "It's showtime at HOTA with the precinct's first international exhibition lighting up our magnificent gallery. Pop Masters is symbolic of HOTA's ambitious vision .... seeking out the biggest and best exhibitions across the globe. Prepare to be blown away by this incredible private collection from the Mugrabi family."

HOTA Chair, Jackie Trad said: “Presenting a world exclusive exhibition is a landmark moment for HOTA Gallery and the Gold Coast. The quality and scale of this exhibition demonstrates our shared ambition with the City of Gold Coast to bring world-class exhibitions, that attracts tourists and boosts city pride. We’re a pop art city, and this world premiere exhibition demonstrates HOTA is a home for both incredible international and Australian art.”

Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said Pop Masters would be a great cultural addition to the Gold Coast visitor economy and our great Queensland lifestyle: “As an exclusive, world premiere exhibition featuring original works of the giants of Pop Art, this is a major destination event for the Gold Coast and Queensland. Pop Masters is another reason for visitors from around Australia and across the ditch to start planning a first-class Gold Coast tourism experience. This exhibition celebrates the Gold Coast’s cultural credentials while investing more than 17,000 visitor nights and $2.8 million in the local tourism economy. When visitors travel to Gold Coast to experience the famous works of Andy Warhol, Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat, they’ll also support accommodation and hospitality providers and local tourism operators. The Gold Coast is the only place in the southern hemisphere to experience the unique art culture of 1970s and 80s New York in one blockbuster collection.”

Criena Gehrke, HOTA CEO said: “Pop Masters has been six years in the making and HOTA is delivering a world exclusive exhibition right here on the Gold Coast. Over the years it has evolved into a bespoke exhibition that offers a completely unique experience. Having access to the Mugrabi family personal collection is a real privilege and the artworks rarely leave New York. We are thrilled to be bringing these iconic artists and celebrated artworks to Australia for the first time.”

Tracy Cooper-Lavery, Director, Gallery and Visual Arts, HOTA said: “Pop Masters: Art from the Mugrabi Collection celebrates the history of Pop Art, whilst examining its influence on art and artists today. We wanted to explore the intersections in the lives, ideas and practices of this significant group of artists. Many of them knew each other, collaborated or have been influenced by each other, and we have acknowledged this in the design of the exhibition, that will see these incredible artworks in dialogue with one another.”

Find out more about Pop Masters: Art from the Mugrabi Collection, New York and how to buy tickets.

_{Image: Jean-Michel Basquiat 1985 © Lizzie Himmel. Artwork © Estate of Jean-Michel Basquiat. Licensed by Artestar, New York.}