Celebrated Pattern and Decoration artist Robert Kushner wears his heart on his sleeve in his latest solo show titled ‘I Heart Matisse’ at DC Moore Gallery in Chelsea. Strong pattern and bright color dominate still lives that include ceramics and textiles in his collection. By mentally inhabiting Henri Matisse’s light-drenched South of France style, Kushner not only pays homage but celebrates optimism and pleasure in nature and creativity. (On view through June 19th).
The long-armed embrace offered by the central figure says it all in this acrylic on canvas painting by Emma Kohlmann at Jack Hanley Gallery on the Lower East Side. Kohlmann explains that viewers who venture out to galleries during the pandemic should encounter an oasis, or a place to be distracted from turbulent times. Caring couples, harmonious relationships between humans and nature, and references to Matisse’s colorful painting abound in a show that will take the mind to happy places. (On view through Nov 14th).
Young Brooklyn-based British painter Tunji Adeniyi-Jones brings Yoruba deities, Matisse’s dancers and Chris Ofili’s Trinidadian characters to mind in bold, rhythmic paintings at Nicelle Beauchene Gallery on the Lower East Side. (On view through Dec 23rd).
The folks behind-the-scenes have taken over the scene at David Zwirner Gallery’s 533 West 19th Street, location in Chelsea, where some forty artists who work at the gallery are showing their own work. Here, Jay Pluck’s hand painted wallpaper pattern is a welcome sliver of Matisse-like color and pattern installed unexpectedly between galleries. (Through Aug 5th).
A visit to the Alhambra in Spain inspired Oxford, England-based Sudanese artist Ibrahim El-Salahi to begin his ‘Flamenco’ series, in which he celebrates the music and dance of Andalusia in his signature, modernist style. (At Salon94 on the Lower East Side through April 18th).
