Peter Gressmann, a well-known German fine art dealer based in the UAE and the founder of ArtforumUAE, is proposing the establishment of a museum dedicated to the legendary pop icon Michael Jackson in Dubai as the 15th anniversary of Jackson’s death approaches. This museum would showcase Jackson’s lesser-known talents as a visual artist alongside his groundbreaking contributions to music and dance.
Gressmann reveals that he has access to a collection of 140 pieces of Jackson’s artwork, including a large-scale installation featuring a bronze sculpture of the King of Pop himself, which is considered a significant museum piece. The collection also includes drawings and paintings created by Jackson, showcasing his unique style and recurring motifs such as Baroque-style chairs, gates, keys, and the number 7, symbolizing his position as the seventh child in his family. One standout piece is a portrait of Jackson’s pet chimpanzee, Bubbles, blending into an ornate lounge chair.
Jackson, a self-taught artist, primarily utilized drawing, sketches, and paintings to express his creativity. Gressmann describes Jackson’s ability to transform everyday objects into cult symbols, as evident in his sketchbooks filled with studies of his favorite objects in various iterations. Jackson’s portraits, including sketches of Paul McCartney and George Washington, as well as self-portraits showcasing different aspects of his personality, reveal the depth of his artistic talent.
Gressmann believes that a Michael Jackson Museum in Dubai could attract visitors from around the world for decades, not only as an art dealer but also as a tourism specialist. With Jackson’s global fan base and cultural significance, such a museum would serve as a tribute to his legacy, offering an immersive experience for fans and art enthusiasts alike. Jackson’s untimely death in 2009 at the age of 50 from cardiac arrest caused by propofol and benzodiazepine intoxication marked the end of an era in music and entertainment, making the proposed museum even more poignant in celebrating his life and work.
In conclusion, the idea of a Michael Jackson Museum in Dubai presents a unique opportunity to honor the multifaceted talents of the King of Pop beyond his musical achievements. With Peter Gressmann’s vision and access to a valuable collection of Jackson’s artwork, the museum could serve as a cultural landmark and a pilgrimage site for fans worldwide. As the anniversary of Jackson’s passing approaches, the proposal for the museum gains significance, highlighting the enduring legacy of one of the most iconic figures in the history of music and art.
