Messi’s Iconic Goal Comes to Life in Immersive Art Exhibit

An immersive art experience lets fans relive **Lionel Messi**’s unforgettable 2009 UEFA Champions League Final header. Created by digital artist **Refik Anadol**, the exhibit, “Living Memory: Messi-A Goal in Life,” blends art, technology, and emotion.

Experience the Goal

Using data-driven AI, **Anadol** mapped 17 points of **Messi**’s body. By layering biometric voice data, breathing rhythms, and heartbeats, the eight-minute installation offers a multi-sensory “memory temple.” This reconstruction allows audiences to connect with **Messi** and feel the energy of that split-second moment.

Christie’s Auction Benefits UNICEF

Presented through a Christie’s sale, the exhibit is open for bidding from July 8 to 22. The immersive experience is free at Christie’s New York, Rockefeller Center, from July 12 to 22. Tickets are available on-site daily, while supplies last.

As global displacement of children soars, reaching 43.3 million by the end of 2023, UNICEF urgently requires funds to provide these vulnerable children with access to education and safe environments (UNICEF, 2024).

Proceeds from the auction will benefit nonprofits, including the Miami CF Foundation’s global partnership with UNICEF, supporting education programs across Latin America and the Caribbean. The opening bid is set at $1.5 million. The highest bidder will also meet **Messi** himself.

Artist’s Vision

“This isn’t about nostalgia,” said **Anadol** in a press release. His goal is to relive the depth of that moment with **Messi** and share the emotions felt by the crowd. **Anadol** combines art, technology, and human emotions through this AI Data Sculpture.

Messi’s Perspective

“It’s an honor to join forces with the Inter Miami Foundation for a good cause—I feel privileged to be able to do so,” stated **Messi** in a press release. “This project means a lot to me, not only because it recalls a special moment in my career, but also because, thanks to such a unique artist like Refik, it can help improve the lives of others who truly need it.”

How to Experience It

“Living Memory: Messi-A Goal in Life” can be experienced digitally on Christie’s website. In-person viewings begin July 12, from 10am to 5pm Monday through Saturday and 1 to 5pm on Sundays, at Christie’s New York (20 Rockefeller Plaza).