Pierre et Gilles’ Diverse Portraits on Display at Mexico’s Franz Mayer Museum

Web Editor

June 26, 2025

a group of people standing in front of a heart shaped mirror with a painting on it's wall, David LaC

Introduction to Pierre et Gilles and Their Impact

For the first time in Mexico, the Franz Mayer Museum is showcasing an extensive collection of works by the renowned French duo, Pierre et Gilles. This celebrated artistic couple, consisting of Pierre Commoy and Gilles Blanchard, has been instrumental in capturing the essence of celebrities and public figures from various backgrounds and geographies for over six decades. Their work has also been pivotal in highlighting sexogenetic diversity, making them cultural icons and pioneers in the art world.

A Long-Awaited Visit to Mexico

The Franz Mayer Museum’s permanent galleries now engage in an unprecedented dialogue, thanks to the collaboration between Pierre et Gilles’ artwork and the museum’s existing collection. The exhibition, titled “Pierre et Gilles: The Construction of the Symbol,” was made possible with support from the Instituto Francés en América Latina (IFAL) and the French Embassy, fulfilling a long-held dream of the artists to exhibit in Mexico.

Curator’s Perspective on Cultural Diversity

“All cultures are represented in the work of Pierre et Gilles, and naturally, sexogenetic diversity is a prominent theme,” says Abraham Villavicencio, the curator of the exhibition.

Famous Faces Captured by Pierre et Gilles

Through their lens, Pierre et Gilles have immortalized the likenesses of numerous luminaries, including Andy Warhol, Mick Jagger, Iggy Pop, Madonna, Tilda Swinton, Naomi Campbell, and Kylie Minogue.

Key Questions and Answers

  • Who are Pierre et Gilles? Pierre et Gilles is a French artistic duo composed of Pierre Commoy and Gilles Blanchard, known for their captivating portraits of celebrities and public figures since the late 1970s.
  • What makes their work significant? Their art has been instrumental in highlighting sexogenetic diversity and celebrating multiculturalism, making them cultural icons and pioneers in the art world.
  • Why is this exhibition important for Mexico? This marks the first time Pierre et Gilles’ work is displayed in Mexico, fostering a dialogue between their art and the Franz Mayer Museum’s existing collection.
  • What themes are explored in their work? Pierre et Gilles’ artwork prominently features sexogenetic diversity and celebrates various cultures, as noted by curator Abraham Villavicencio.