The Art of the Game is a landmark online auction celebrating the intersection of contemporary art and the global phenomenon of football, staged in conjunction with the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Conceived by Arts14C and the New York New Jersey Host Committee as a once-in-a-generation public art initiative, the project brings together 23 internationally recognized artists to transform monumental soccer ball sculptures into dynamic works displayed across New York and New Jersey.
Christie’s is thrilled to be offering a select group of these works, including sculptures by Hank Willis Thomas, Katherine Bernhardt and Bony Ramirez, in an online auction. A portion of the proceeds from this online sale will benefit ARTS 14C and Studio in a School. Starting as an idea to support artists in the New Jersey area, ARTS 14C is a nonprofit organization whose goal is to increase opportunities for artists, expand public access to the arts, and strengthen careers in the arts. Studio in a School was founded by the late art collector and philanthropist Agnes Gund and aims to bring visual arts education to public school across New York City.
The works for sale will be exhibited from June 11th through to September 3rd at the following locations:
Fred Wilson: Hudson Yards
Tomokazu Matsuyama: Columbus Circle
Hank Willis Thomas: Christie’s Rockefeller Center
Katherine Bernhardt: Christie’s Rockefeller Center
Bony Ramirez: New York/New Jersey Stadium*
By uniting world-class artists, a global sporting stage, and a meaningful charitable purpose, The Art of the Game represents a rare opportunity to acquire works that capture the spirit, scale, and legacy of the 2026 World Cup.
*indicates a sculpture that will be de-installed on July 20th.
