Trophy of a “Strong Man”

Surface as a Threshold

Mai Gnibba

Trophy of a “Strong Man”

2022
Ceramic, slipware, glaze, marble
33 × 50 × 25 cm

Trophy of a “Strong Man” reflects on the renewed appeal of the “strongman” ideal—an image of masculinity associated with dominance, power, and control. It appears in politics and business, but also in changing social ideals and expectations of gender.

Power seeks trophies—visible signs of status and strength to possess and display. The zebra head recalls the traditional hunting trophy as a symbol of conquest and prowess.

Yet what appears real at first glance is a carefully constructed imitation. This ambiguity questions the very notion of the “strongman”. Is this image of strength becoming desirable again—and why now?

Mai Gnibba
Sculpture (Ceramics, Wood, Plaster, Mixed Media)
Works · Artist Statement · Biography & Exhibitions