Mighty Aphrodite: Jeff Koons Honors Venus in Athens

Jeff Koons and the Timeless Dialogue Between Ancient and Contemporary Art

Jeff Koons, one of the most influential artists of our time, is known for his ability to engage in deep and meaningful conversations. Whether discussing art, culture, or personal philosophy, he brings a unique perspective that captivates audiences. This talent proves invaluable when talking about his work and how it connects with both the past and present. Recently, Koons has been in Athens for the opening of “Jeff Koons: ‘Venus’ Lespugue,” an exhibition hosted by the Museum of Cycladic Art. The show presents a fascinating dialogue between ancient and contemporary art, featuring his “Balloon Venus Lespugue (Orange)” alongside ten Paleolithic Venuses—certified copies of original artifacts housed in major European museums.

The exhibition explores the evolution of the female form from the Palaeolithic period to the present day, offering a journey that spans over 40,000 years of human creativity. It invites viewers to reflect on how artistic expression has remained a constant thread throughout history.

During the Palaeolithic era, roughly between 42,000 and 20,000 years ago, humans across Eurasia created small figurines of women using materials such as ivory, limestone, and clay. These objects, now known as Palaeolithic “Venuses,” are among the earliest examples of sculptural art and have been discovered in caves. One notable example is the “Kolobrzeg’s Venus,” a 6,000-year-old figurine found in Pomerania, which has intrigued scientists for its unique characteristics.

The “Venus de Lespugue” was named after the French town where it was discovered in a cave in the Occitanie region. It dates back approximately 28,000 years and measures just 15 centimeters in length. Carved from a mammoth tusk, this figurine, along with nine others, forms what some call the “womb of human creation.” Displayed in a dark, cave-like chamber, the Venuses create an immersive experience that emphasizes their symbolic meaning—life, fertility, and vitality.

The figure of Venus has long inspired Jeff Koons, who has drawn from it since the 1970s. His “Balloon Venus Lespugue (Orange)” (2013–2019) is a monumental sculpture made of reflective stainless steel, resembling a balloon. It is placed in a separate, panelled room within the neoclassical mansion hosting the exhibition. This work stands in contrast to the small, ancient Venuses, yet they share a common theme of celebrating the female form.

The Balloon Venus is part of the Homem Sonnabend Collection, curated by Antonio Homem Sonnabend and Phokion Potamianos Homem. Before the exhibition’s opening, Koons shared his thoughts on the project, reflecting on the significance of the Paleolithic Venuses and how they influence his work.

What attracted you to this particular figurine?

Jeff Koons explained that when he decided to create the “Balloon Venus” series, he produced four different versions. The “Venus de Lespugue” stood out as the most modernist. He compared it to a sculpture by Giacometti, noting that its side profile appears very modernist. However, it also carries deep historical significance, representing the early stages of human creativity.

This exhibition marks the first time that replicas of Paleolithic figurines have been gathered in one place. They are not only in dialogue with each other but also with Koons’ own work, creating a powerful narrative that bridges millennia.

What are the key features of your work and how does it relate to the Venuses we see in the other room?

Koons emphasized that while the Paleolithic Venuses were crafted using the materials available at the time—such as ivory, bone, and terracotta—his own work uses stainless steel. This material reflects his access to modern technology and expertise. Yet, he admires the way the ancient artisans incorporated profound information into their creations.

Many of these ancient figures date back to 35,000 or even 40,000 years ago. Despite the challenges of their time, the artisans managed to embed important messages about survival, community, and human connection. Koons’ work, though different in material, serves a similar purpose—it reflects the environment and offers a form of visual luxury.

Does prehistoric art, these symbols of our cultural history, have anything to tell us today?

Koons believes that prehistoric art holds valuable lessons for the present. Like the artisans of the Paleolithic era, modern creators retain and share information to build a collective understanding of humanity. He sees this as a continuous process, one that has shaped civilization from its earliest days to the present.

He also stressed the importance of maintaining cultural quality through the sharing of knowledge. In a world that often feels divided, Koons sees art as a unifying force that can help us connect and understand one another.

You have travelled a vast artistic journey. How has your relationship with art evolved over time? Where do you draw inspiration for your creative work today?

Koons described himself as an intuitive artist who follows his interests. He believes that everyone, regardless of their profession, is driven by their passions. By focusing on these interests, individuals can connect with a universal language that transcends boundaries.

How would you describe your personal iconography? What are the themes that you enjoy and continue to explore in your work?

Koons spoke about the power of art to influence emotions and communication. He developed his own iconography to convey messages that he finds meaningful. His work aims to foster care, respect, and connection—not just for the viewer, but for the broader human experience.

We live in very dark times and this is a very bright work. What is the message you want to send?

Koons expressed hope for humanity, emphasizing the importance of acceptance and mutual respect. He believes that despite the challenges of the past, we have come far and must continue to strive for a better future.

The ten Paleolithic Aphrodites

The exhibition includes several iconic Paleolithic figurines, such as the “Aphrodite of Lespugue,” the “Venuses of Grimaldi,” the “Venus of Savignano,” and the “Venus of Dolní Věstonice.” Each of these works highlights the shared characteristics of the Paleolithic Venuses—small size, emphasis on fertility, and abstract representation of the body.

Other notable pieces include the “Venus of Willendorf,” one of the most recognizable works of Palaeolithic art, and the “Venuses of Parabita.” Despite their geographical differences, these figurines share a common visual language that speaks to the universality of human experience.

According to the curators of the exhibition, the exaggerated forms of these Venuses serve as a vessel for meaning, emphasizing the body as a symbol of life and continuity.

In addition to the sculptures, the exhibition features original drawings by Jeff Koons and a video production exploring his creative process. A scholarly catalogue accompanies the show, with essays from Koons and experts on the enduring significance of the Paleolithic “Venuses.”