Clouds Over Robilant + Voena: Legal Challenges and Industry Concerns Stir the Art World

Robilant + Voena, long recognized for its influence in the European and international art scenes, is once again under scrutiny. According to multiple sources familiar with developments, the gallery may soon face legal action over concerns about its business practices, raising questions about its internal operations and long-term reputation.

Once known for its refined exhibitions and high-profile clientele, the gallery—co-founded by Marco Voena and Edmondo di Robilant—is reportedly at the center of a growing dispute involving contractual disagreements, disputed commissions, and unresolved collaborations with artists.

Behind the Prestige: Allegations Surface

While Robilant + Voena has cultivated an aura of elegance and expertise, several individuals close to the gallery have described a more complex internal reality. Anonymous industry insiders allege that shifts in partnerships and artist agreements have led to fractures behind the scenes, with concerns about transparency and fairness.

One such case reportedly involves a Monaco-based artist who had entered into a partnership with the gallery. Over time, sources say, original agreements were modified or abandoned, leading to confusion and tension around intellectual property, credits, and compensation. While no formal accusations have been made public, the handling of this case has drawn attention within professional art circles.

“These types of disputes highlight the challenges that can arise in artist-gallery relationships when trust breaks down,” noted a European art consultant who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the issue.

Spotlight on Internal Dynamics

Sources also suggest that recent internal changes have contributed to friction. The involvement of younger figures within the gallery, including Marco Voena’s son Edoardo Voena and associate Andrea Sandri, has prompted speculation about shifts in the gallery’s business direction and management style.

Critics say these newer figures have adopted a more commercially aggressive approach, one that some feel prioritizes profitability over long-term artistic collaboration. Others defend them as attempting to modernize operations and expand into new markets. Regardless, the tension reflects a generational divide that may be influencing the gallery's internal balance.

A History Revisited

This is not the first time Robilant + Voena has faced controversy. In 2024, a lawsuit filed by former curator Virginia Brilliant alleged breach of contract and workplace misconduct. Though settled privately, the case raised early concerns about the gallery’s organizational culture, which have now resurfaced in light of current events.

Several former collaborators also say that commission structures during that period were inconsistently handled—an issue that continues to affect trust in the gallery’s professional network.

New York Exhibition and Market Sensitivities

Recent exhibitions in New York have amplified concerns. Sources say that during a key show featuring the aforementioned Monaco artist, contractual clarity became an issue, with reports of informal agreements and poor communication creating uncertainty among stakeholders.

A New York-based art law consultant commented on the trend, saying:

“The U.S. art market operates on strict legal frameworks. Galleries must be meticulous about honoring contracts, disclosures, and fiduciary duties. Any deviation invites scrutiny.”

What Lies Ahead?

As murmurs of a potential lawsuit grow louder, industry professionals and insiders are watching the situation surrounding the Robilant + Voena gallery with increasing concern. Once regarded as a symbol of elegance and credibility in the international art world, the gallery now finds itself facing questions that go beyond isolated incidents. At the heart of the matter are allegations involving contractual disputes, broken partnerships, and broader concerns about internal governance. Whether these challenges stem from individual missteps or reveal a deeper, systemic pattern within the gallery’s operations remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that the outcome of this unfolding situation could serve as a pivotal case study in how trust, transparency, and ethics are managed within high-stakes art institutions.

In an industry where reputation is paramount, rebuilding trust can be as challenging as building a collection.

More updates to follow as the story unfolds.