Sugiura Yasuyoshi in ‘The Slipstream: Reflection, Resilience and Resistance in the Art of Our Time’ at the Brooklyn Museum of Art

Dogwood flowers are known for their ‘delicate yet tough appearance’ the Brooklyn Museum explains; Sugiura Yasuyoshi’s sculptural version of a dogwood bloom adds another contrast by presenting transient beauty in solid stoneware.  Known for his ceramic sculptures of flowers, Yasuyoshi’s blooms may seem an unusual choice for ‘The Slipstream,’ the museum’s current show of work from the permanent collection that reflects on the turbulence of 2020.  But the flower is often associated with rebirth, making it a symbol of hope.  (On view through March 20, ’22.  Masks and vaccination proof required.)

Sugiura Yasuyoshi, Dogwood Flower, stoneware with metallic glazes, 2019.

John Edmonds at Brooklyn Museum of Art

At first glance, one figure dominates John Edmonds’ photograph ‘Two Spirits,’ a standout in his gorgeous solo show at the Brooklyn Museum of Art.  However, a soft area on the model’s light-bathed right shoulder and the shifting finger and thumb of his left hand testify to the film’s double exposure, a technique that adds to the abundant doubling taking place in the image. While the title is a term referring to nonbinary people, and Dan masks traditionally can shift identity when worn in performance, Edmonds brings to mind a third doubling by citing Ibeji, the Yoruba deity associated with twins.  (On view through Aug 8th.  Masks, social distancing and advance tickets required).

John Edmonds, Two Spirits, archival pigment photograph, 2019.

Sipros Sipros at Bushwick Collective

New York galleries may have reopened in July and part of August, but most have now closed for an end-of-summer break before regrouping in early September.  New York’s street art is ready to step in for our daily viewing pleasure, however, as proven by Brazilian street-art star Sipros Sipros’ delicious mural.  Part of Bushwick Collective’s sprawling program in Bushwick, Brooklyn, this big-eared character (the artist’s signature) enjoys a sticky moment in donut-paradise.  (On view on Troutman Street between Cypress Ave and St Nicholas Ave).

Tito Ferrara at Bushwick Collective

While museums and galleries are closed, a walk through Bushwick’s outdoor art gallery is a great alternative way to get your art fix.  This huge painting of a Brazilian jaguar by Sao Paulo street artist Tito Ferrara dominates the intersection, standing out among the many superb murals commissioned by the Bushwick Collective.  If you can’t get to Bushwick, check out the latest murals @thebushwickcollective or watch a short video of Ferrara strolling through the neighborhood @titoferrara.

Tito Ferrara, installation view of A Brazilian Jaguar, at Jefferson Street and St Nicholas Ave, 2019.

Valerie Hegarty at Burning in Water

In the shadow of Chelsea’s ultra-luxurious new residential buildings, Valerie Hegarty’s new sculptures and wall installations at Burning in Water are a poignant, contemporary vanitas, reminding us that what is fresh will soon be old.  Here, the Brooklyn-based artist’s own subway stop is the inspiration for a paint and paper installation that nestles right into a pristine wall.  (On view in Chelsea through Jan 5th).

Valerie Hegarty, Eastern Parkway/Brooklyn Museum (My Subway Stop), paper, latex and acrylic paint, Tyvek, glue, 82 x 72 inches, 2018.