Nancy Grossman at Michael Rosenfeld Gallery

Constructed from saddles and harnesses given to her by major Ab Exp sculptor David Smith, this striking assemblage by Nancy Grossman from 1965 suggests militaristic aggression and violence enacted on an individual’s body. (At Michael Rosenfeld Gallery through July 3rd.)

Nancy Grossman, For David Smith, mixed media assemblage on canvas mounted on plywood, 85 x 85 x 6 ¾ inches, 1965.

Lucas Samaras in ‘Specific Objects’ at Susan Inglett Gallery

Lucas Samaras’ pin-encrusted cube is a standout in Susan Inglett Gallery’s ‘Specific Objects’ show, an exhibition inspired by a pivotal 1965 Donald Judd essay that came to define minimalism.  The piece’s shape is its subject matter, but the pins introduce an element of danger that give it a charge.  (In Chelsea through July 26th).  

Lucas Samaras, Untitled, pins on wood, 1964.