Anselm Kiefer at Gagosian Gallery: Transition from Cool to Warm

Anselm Kiefer's oil paintings are truly captivating.  The show currently on view at Gagosian Gallery on 21st street presents a large selection of his new paintings, artist books and watercolors.  There is a lot to take in and I admit I spent most of my time there looking at his large oil paintings.  They are thick and crusty and peeling away from the canvas in a most melodic way.  The beautiful, romantic landscapes from a distance became ragged and sharp from up close.  It is this application of paint (and other materials) that is so mesmerizing.  It feels most satisfying.  Kiefer shows us what an oil painting can be...what an oil painting is. The exhibition runs until July 14th; see a sample of images below:

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The Conference of The Birds at Shirley Fiterman Art Center

Shirley Fiterman Art Center is now hosting a new art exhibition with a very specific theme: Birds.  The curator, Brenda Zlamany, brought together a variety of works from paintings and drawings to digital and even performance art.  This I believe is the strength of the show, there is something for everyone's taste. Here are some of my favorite pieces.  Please go and see the show for yourself!

Brenda Zlamany, "Owl #2"

Wade Schuman, "Bird" and " Penguin Head on a Pedesal"

Kevin King, " Diorama with Pink Coral" and "Diorama with Starfish"

George Boorujy, Passenger III

Mike Ballou, "Birds"

Brenda Zlamany, " Birds #22"

Sarah Haviland, " Aviary 5: Coral Branch"

Wendy Klemperer, "The Nest"

Art New York Art Fair -Sweets and more

Art New York  just ended but the art still lingers on my mind.  I had the pleasure of viewing Odd Nerdrum's paintings up close as well as Eric Fischl.  There were many other impressive paintings in the fair, such as those in the New York Academy of Art's booth.  Over and over again I was delighted by sculptures and three dimensional wall pieces. Some included video and digital images, making them quite interesting to watch.  One theme I observed was candy galore, big boxes of chocolate, big candy jars and more.  For those with a love of art and a sweet tooth those really hit the mark.  Here are a few of my favorites pieces, enjoy!

Eric Fischl

Peter Anton

Wolfgang Stiller

Kathy Stecko

Carole Feurman

Alyssa Monks Solo Show at Forum Gallery

Last night I attended Forum Gallery's opening reception for Alyssa Monks' exhibition 'Resolution'.  For this show she produced an impressive amount of paintings and drawings, all in one year. There are 13 large scale paintings on view plus ten or so smaller works.  I was excited to see her new work, a departure from the well known images of figures in water, but equally successful. She now combines portraiture and landscape in a mysterious way, hiding and fading her figures in a beautiful lush wilderness.  This illusion sometimes takes a few moments to discover.  In the same way her brushwork needs to be carefully examined: as you get close the paintings breath, the layers of paint are loose and and the texture is boldly applied.  From a distance this detail might be hidden, but it is certainly a pleasant discovery if you get close. That is why you have to see her paintings in person. The show runs from March 24 – May 7, 2016.  I'm posting some photos below. You can find more info and photos on the gallery's website.  Enjoy!

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Art On Paper Art Fair

The Art on Paper Fair is being held at Pier 36 this week-end, March 3-6.  The fair started last year, but this was my first time visiting.  The 65 galleries exhibiting show a variety of drawings, prints, paintings, photographs, collages and more all on paper. They range from those made by well known artists such as Degas or Sargent to contemporary draftsmen.  Prices range quite a bit too.  With many works on paper I was curious to see how they are presented: simple white frames seem to be the trend.  Even though this is an international fair there are many NYC galleries, some galleries from the US and only a few galleries from abroad. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the diversity of works and I definitely recommend going (see photos below):

'Mementos' at 70 Columbus Penthouses

70 Columbus is a brand new apartment building located at Grove Street in Jersey City.   It is also the venue selected by Panepinto Galleries for their new exhibition "Mementos".   What I love about it is that it includes amazing artworks as well as jewelry, fashion, interior design, flower design and lots of house accessories.  It is fun and elegant.  You are guaranteed to find something unique and creative in these penthouse apartments, plus the views of Jersey and Manhattan are spectacular.  For more information and a list of artists represented please visit the gallery's website. I strongly encourage you to experience this treasure hunt for yourself!