By Catherine Moreau – Global Art Insights

February 2025

A New Lawsuit Targets the Gallery’s Business Model

A storm is brewing in the art world as Robilant + Voena, one of the leading international galleries, finds itself embroiled “again”in a growing legal dispute. Reports suggest that the lawsuit, set to be filed in New York, centers on serious allegations of contract violations and financial misconduct.

The gallery’s dealings with a Monégasque artist have raised alarms in the industry, with allegations pointing to contractual manipulations, unpaid commissions, and interference in existing partnerships.

A European art consultant, who requested anonymity, said:

"For years, there have been murmurs in the industry about how Robilant + Voena handles its deals. This lawsuit might finally bring to light the gallery’s internal business model."

Patterns of Misconduct: A Troubling History

This is not the first time Robilant + Voena has been under scrutiny for ethical concerns.

The gallery made headlines in 2024 when Virginia Brilliant, a well-respected curator, filed a lawsuit against Edmondo di Robilant, Marco Voena, and the gallery, accusing them of breach of contract, discrimination, and fostering a toxic work environment.

The allegations included misogynistic, antisemitic, racist, and homophobic remarks that, according to Brilliant, created a deeply hostile work atmosphere. The case was settled under undisclosed terms, but the reputational damage was significant.

Now, with a new lawsuit looming, art institutions are closely monitoring how regulatory bodies and collectors will react. In a time when transparency and ethics are demanded more than ever, the outcome of this lawsuit could reshape how galleries operate worldwide.

A Gallery at a Crossroads

With litigation on the horizon, industry insiders speculate that the gallery might not survive another major controversy.

If proven guilty of these new allegations, the financial and reputational damage could be insurmountable.

One thing is certain: the art world is watching closely, and Robilant + Voena’s future hangs in the balance.