Israel is the seventh artist to take over MAMO for the summer, following on an older, and largely Francophone roster that has included Xavier Veilhan, Daniel Buren, Dan Graham and Felice Varini. He often engages with the seductive power of Hollywood, reframing movie props as readymade sculptures that capture a cultural moment, and at MAMO, Israel’s choice of subject responds in part to the architecture.

Occupying the top levels of the Cité Radieuse, the art centre comprises a double-height gymnasium with a striking curved ceiling, and a roof terrace anchored by an undulating chimney. The elegant bulk of the concrete building, combined with sweeping views of the city’s terracotta rooftops and the azure Mediterranean, make it the perfect superhero’s lair. But the artist was also inspired by Marseille’s historic reputation for violence and crime, explaining, ‘It’s the idea of this really tough and gritty city which made me think of Gotham.’

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