Core values

Figuring out the essence of life

A phalanx of busts forms a guard of honour at the entrance to Tate Modern’s retrospective of Alberto Giacometti (until 10 September). In the 20 years since the artist’s last major exhibition in this country, the prices of his elongated sculptures have gone through the roof, with his Man Pointing – the Tate’s version of which is on show – selling for a record $141 million at Christie’s, New York in 2015. Today’s brand-conscious billionaire collectors like their art to be immediately recognisable, and you can spot a Giacometti a mile away.

Laura Gascoigne
Giacometti
Tate Modern, London