The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art is hosting a major retrospective exhibition of the late American artist Kaari Upson, titled “Dollhouse”, showcasing her diverse body of work from her short but impactful 15-year career. The exhibition, which runs until October 26, 2025, offers a comprehensive look at Upson’s artistic explorations of memory, identity, gender, history, and childhood.

Upson, who died of cancer in 2021 at the age of 51, left behind a compelling collection of sculptures, drawings, videos, and installations that delve into personal and collective traumas.

The exhibition presents Upson’s work as a unified whole, highlighting her unique sensitivity and artistic vision. Central to the exhibition is “The Larry Project”, a series of works inspired by the discovery of an abandoned house and the belongings of its resident, whom Upson named “Larry”. This project encompasses videos, sculptures, drawings, and performances that explore themes of identity and alienation.

Other notable works in the exhibition include “Mother’s Legs”, a sculpture featuring pale tree trunks resembling legs hanging from the ceiling, and silicone castings of furniture from “Larry’s” house. These pieces evoke a David Lynch-like atmosphere and showcase Upson’s ability to blend humor and sorrow in her art.

The exhibition also delves into Upson’s family history, particularly her mother’s German heritage and the impact of historical events on her family. Upson’s exploration of her family’s past is reflected in works such as grotesque portraits of “vain Germans” and a dollhouse installation used in unsettling videos.

The exhibition features a variety of works, including large drawings with texts and sketches, painted laser prints, and humorous “kiss paintings”. Louisiana’s retrospective offers visitors a face-to-face encounter with the artist Kaari Upson and showcases her legacy as an artist whose work will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.