20/07/2026
Stakes High, 2024 by Jorge Mañes Rubio.
This basketball sculpture depicts M45, a star cluster visible to the naked eye some 444 light years away, made up of more than 1,000 stars, it is commonly known as the Pleiades – mythological daughters of Atlas and Pleione in Greek mythology. Across cultures, however, this cluster is known by many names and holds both practical and symbolic significance.
In this work, artist Jorge Mañes Rubio combines his own interpretation of classical astronomical iconography with inspiration drawn from one of his favourite songs, Stakes Is High by De La Soul. The iconic track, produced by J Dilla, signifies an all or nothing moment, a plea for positive vibes and vibrations. Taking it as a creative mantra, this sculpture to Jorge represents a personal reminder to stay true to himself, avoiding shortcuts in the creative process and having fun assembling new constellations.
Basketball, plaster, gesso and glass beads
25 cm
