The Phrygian cap, worn as a symbol of emancipation in the French revolution and before, inspired American sculptor Martin Puryear’s new work at Chelsea’s Matthew Marks Gallery. As a series of sculptures that point to freedom, Puryear’s work goes beyond formally attractive objects to suggest justice as its own form of beauty. (Through Jan 10th).
Martin Puryear (foreground), Big Phrygian, painted red cedar, 2010-2014.
The title of this towering sculpture in graphite-rubbed cedar by Ursula von Rydingsvard – ‘Dumna’ – implies dignified pride. Ending with –a indicates the feminine form of the word. Solid as a geological formation yet seeming to sway in graceful contrapposto, the title seems appropriate. (At Galerie Lelong through Dec 13th).
Ursula von Rydingsvard, Dumna, cedar, graphite, 130 x 97 x 64.5 inches, 2014.
Minimalist art pioneer Carl Andre accompanies his current Dia:Beacon retrospective with a show of work from the past thirty years at Paula Cooper Gallery. Here, two sculptures use cedar beams as building blocks, making an additive sculpture of strong, industrial materials. (Through July 25th).
Carl Andre, 4 x 4 Cedar Solid, 16 Western red cedar units, each 36 x 12 x 12 inches, 2008 (foreground). Bar, Douglas Fir (36 unit row), each 12 x 12 x 36 inches, 1981 (background).
