In the early 90s, an LA Times critic commented on the ‘silly sort of dignity’ possessed by the eccentric characters in Gladys Nilsson’s large watercolors. The phrase perfectly characterizes these figures from the ‘80s, whose exaggerated physical characteristics and twisting bodies are equal parts grotesque and intriguing. (At Garth Greenan Gallery in Chelsea through Feb 18th).
Taking an 80s aesthetic as inspiration, Ben Sander’s steel vase is a surprisingly sturdy support for an abstract design of floating shapes and heavily textured lines of lavender paint. Sander’s accompanying 2-D work behind likewise balances the substantial – thick marks resembling giant paint strokes – with unanchored shapes including ping pong and Wiffle balls to offer an amusing musing on taste. (At Chelsea’s Asya Geisberg Gallery through June 25th).
Late painter Moira Dryer’s career is in a revival as 11R gallery explores how the artist worked within the framework of minimalism to both create an emotional impact via color and convey personality via references to representation (a fingerprint, in this case). (On the Lower East Side through Feb 7th).
Moira Dryer, Untitled, casein on wood, 48 x 63 inches, 1987.
1980s interior décor inspires Brooklyn artist Leah Guadagnoli’s huge new wall sculptures, perfectly conjuring the colors and fabrics of the decade and turning them into objects of contemplation. (At 247365 on the Lower East Side through Feb 7th.)
Leah Guadagnoli, Slow Dance in My Underpants, oil, acrylic, fabric, pumice stone, canvas, wood and polyurethane foam on insulation board, 72 x 58 x 7 inches, 2015.
The pyramids meet a great big expressionist splash of paint in a recreation of a mural by Roy Lichtenstein from 1983, which brings together references from art history and Lichtenstein’s previous work in a size XXL jumble. Originally installed for six weeks at Leo Castelli Gallery before being painted over, Gagosian Gallery is currently hosting a redo, accompanied by paintings and sculpture that flesh out Lichtenstein’s subject matter, from a Picasso head to a piece of Swiss cheese. (In Chelsea through Oct 17th).
Roy Lichtenstein, Greene Street Mural, 1983 (replica, 2015).
