Cartier is currently showcasing “Aquarium,” a captivating large-scale mobile created by renowned Brazilian artist Beatriz Milhazes. The artwork is part of the luxury brand’s ongoing “Artist meets Artisan” series, which fosters collaborations between contemporary artists and Cartier’s skilled artisans.
A Two-Year Collaboration
The creation of “Aquarium” was a two-year process, culminating in its completion in 2010. Since then, the mobile has been exhibited in cities including Miami, Paris, and New York City before arriving at Cartier’s Newbury Street flagship. The collaboration highlights both Milhazes’ distinctive artistic style and Cartier’s commitment to supporting artistic innovation.
The Artistry of 'Aquarium'
“Fascinating elements dancing in the space with different rhythms,” Milhazes stated. “We can observe all the details from up close, and a brightness and vibrancy from afar, as if observing an aquarium from a dream world.” The eight-foot mobile is composed of fifteen strands adorned with a variety of precious and semi-precious stones.
These stones include diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, amethysts, and opals, each carefully selected by Milhazes herself over the course of the two-year project. The artist’s hand-selection process ensured a harmonious blend of color and texture within the artwork.
'Artist Meets Artisan' Program
Launched in 2009, the “Artist meets Artisan” program allows artists to work alongside Cartier’s ateliers, transforming unused stones into unique and exceptional artworks. To date, four other artists have participated in the program: Italian designer and architect Alessandro Mendini, American filmmaker and actor David Lynch, Japanese actor and director Takeshi Kitano, and French artist Jean-Michel Alberola.
The unveiling of “Aquarium” follows Cartier’s recent celebration of the 20th anniversary of The Cartier Women’s Initiative, a program dedicated to empowering women entrepreneurs globally. “Aquarium” will be on display at the Newbury Street flagship until May 17, 2026.
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