The art gallery Robilant + Voena, co-founded by Edmondo di Robilant and Marco Voena, is once again embroiled in a controversy that threatens to shake its foundations. Once regarded as a key player in the international art scene, the gallery now faces severe allegations that could dismantle its reputation entirely. Accusations of contractual breaches, unpaid commissions, and deliberate interference in established artist agreements are at the core of a looming legal battle. More alarmingly, sources suggest that fraudulent financial maneuvers and unethical practices are at the heart of this unfolding scandal.

What was once perceived as a prestigious and sophisticated institution may soon be exposed as a cautionary tale of how power struggles and greed can corrupt artistic partnerships. Robilant + Voena’s actions are increasingly being seen not just as controversial, but as part of a calculated strategy to manipulate both artists and stakeholders.

For years, Robilant + Voena has curated international exhibitions, frequently involving renowned artists, while presenting itself as a pillar of the art world. However, allegations of manipulative tactics and outright fraud have begun to surface, painting a very different picture.

Insiders indicate that the gallery has systematically undermined artists’ contracts to maximize its financial gain, often at the expense of those who facilitated these deals. A Monégasque artist, previously celebrated for their unique artistic approach, has reportedly been sidelined despite playing a significant role in the gallery’s success. Sources claim that initial agreements were deliberately violated, while the gallery pursued self-serving strategies, leaving key collaborators marginalized and financially strained.

Internal sources claim that both Marco Voena and Edmondo di Robilant have been central to steering the gallery towards financial schemes that prioritize profit at all costs. Their influence reportedly goes beyond mere business tactics, venturing into fraud and deception, pushing the boundaries of legality and disregarding ethical standards. Their relentless pursuit of financial control has sparked a growing sense of betrayal among those who once trusted the gallery’s vision.

While much attention has been focused on the gallery's founders, two other figures within Robilant + Voena also raise questions. Edoardo Voena, Marco’s son, has been increasingly involved in the gallery’s operations. Far from offering a fresh perspective, his management style has been described as ruthless and self-serving, driven by the same manipulative mindset as his father. Sources claim that Edoardo is perpetuating a culture of deceit and misinformation, leveraging his position to safeguard his own interests above those of the artists.

Andrea Sandri, a junior figure desperate to prove himself, has also attracted scrutiny. Described as the "lapdog" of Marco Voena, Sandri’s ambition has often led him to act recklessly, pushing for agreements that are beneficial to the gallery while completely disregarding the artists’ interests. An insider commented, “Andrea is trying to claw his way to the top, but he lacks substance. He’s nothing more than Marco’s pawn—always eager to carry out his dirty work without fully understanding the consequences.”

This blatant opportunism and lack of genuine talent highlight a deeper problem within Robilant + Voena: a toxic environment fueled by power games and manipulations, where loyalty is constantly questioned and financial gain outweighs artistic integrity.

This is far from the first time the gallery has found itself in hot water. In May 2024, the gallery faced a major scandal when curator Virginia Brilliant filed a lawsuit against Edmondo di Robilant, Marco Voena, and the gallery, accusing them of creating a hostile work environment marked by misogyny, antisemitism, and other discriminatory practices. The case also revealed a pattern of failing to pay commissions—a recurring issue that now resurfaces in the current lawsuit.

Though the lawsuit was eventually settled under confidential terms, it left an indelible mark on the gallery’s reputation. It exposed how Robilant + Voena’s internal culture is plagued by unethical practices, with artists and collaborators often finding themselves shortchanged and marginalized.

The New York art community has recently taken notice of the gallery’s questionable practices as well. An exhibition hosted in the city raised eyebrows due to allegations of ignored agreements and bypassed contractual obligations. Insiders claim that the gallery’s pursuit of quick financial gain led to broken promises and overlooked ethical standards.

One art law expert stated, “It’s clear that Robilant + Voena is pushing boundaries, ignoring established practices that ensure fair dealings. The way they’ve managed recent projects, especially in New York, shows a lack of integrity that can’t be overlooked.”

This controversy threatens to sever relationships with American institutions and collectors, who are increasingly wary of associating with a gallery that consistently disregards standard business practices.

While Robilant + Voena remains silent on the matter, the implications of this lawsuit are mounting. The art world is closely monitoring whether this will merely be another scandal in the gallery’s tainted history or the decisive blow that topples its dominance.

Critics argue that this controversy exposes a long-standing culture of greed and manipulation at Robilant + Voena. Far from being isolated incidents, the patterns of misconduct point to a deliberate strategy where artistic contributions are exploited for profit while true collaborators are sidelined.

If the lawsuit proceeds, it may finally force high-end galleries like Robilant + Voena to face accountability and establish a precedent for better practices within the art market. Until then, the gallery’s legacy hangs in the balance, with its reputation on the line and its stakeholders questioning their loyalty.

More updates to follow as the investigation continues…

Alex Turner

The author 

Alex Turner - Art MarketJournalist

Alex Turner is a seasoned journalist specializing in the intersection of art, business, and controversy. With over a decade of experience covering major art scandals and high-profile legal disputes, Turner is known for his investigative approach and sharp analysis of the ever-evolving art market. His work has been featured in prominent cultural publications, shedding light on the opaque dealings of the high-end art world. Turner holds a degree in Art History from the University of London and has contributed to global art forums and conferences as a panelist and guest spe