Sergio Roger’s practice posits a contemporary take on classical antiquity. Revisiting such familiar historical forms, Roger utilises antique linen and stuffing, to subvert the rigid surfaces of the original relics. At a first glance, Antinoos appears to be honed from a solid block of stone, with the surface texture of the rough linen emulating stone texture and chisel marks. The heavy iron base displays the work like a relic from the Grand Tour.

With each playful homage, Roger encourages the viewer to reengage with history, taking the ubiquitous styles of the classical world and considering them anew. Here, Roger captures Antinoos, lover of Hadrian, who was deified throughout the Roman Empire, following his untimely death in 130 AD. Here, the artist encourages us to recount these histories, refiguring them for the modern world. At the same time, his textile works are executed with great technical skill, employing careful stitching techniques to capture the flowing forms of the original sculptures. Each of Sergio Roger’s works is unique and is created from the finest textiles, which mostly date back to the early 20th century: the artist himself carefully sources these materials from antique shops. Selected fabrics include antique linen and raw silk which bring history and soul into his work.

Born in Barcelona in 1982, Sergio Roger trained at the Art Academy of Berlin, where he studied Sculpture and New Media Art. A fascination with antiquity and with the representation of beauty in ancient civilisations provides the main source of inspiration for the artist. The Graeco-Roman era and its modern counterparts are particularly important reference points for Roger’s practice. In his reinvention and revitalisation of these ancient models, Roger subverts iconic elements of art history through his choice of medium; instead of creating his sculptures from marble, he uses natural textile fibres.

Each artwork is created with the finest level of craftsmanship, using complex techniques stemming from rigorous engagement with historic artisanal practice, honouring the role of these textiles across the centuries.

Roger’s works have been exhibited internationally, notably collaborating with Christie’s, London in December 2021, where his

works were shown alongside lots from its Antiquities sale. He has participated in prestigious fairs such as Miart and Design Miami/Basel, and his work is included in several private and public collections such as the Colección Norte de Arte Contemporáneo, and Fundación Caja Madrid. Roger has received many awards including the Generation 09-Caja Madrid.