Known for semi-abstract and often small-scale sculpture including the ‘Lynch Fragments’ series recently on view at the New Museum, Melvin Edwards takes over the south entrance to City Hall Park via Public Art Fund with this large-scale sculpture depicting broken chains. Titled ‘Brighter Days’ the exhibition’s curving minimal forms enhances the attractiveness of the message displayed – freedom from bondage. (On view through Nov 28th).
Leslie Wayne’s paintings give pleasure through deception; her signature technique is to use paint as a sculptural medium, fooling the eye with dried paint crafted in three dimensions. Wayne’s latest solo show at Jack Shainman Gallery presents paintings that appear to be objects in her studio or windows that do or do not offer a view. On closer inspection, each is carefully crafted to resemble a well-used tool, now worse for wear. Constructed over the past year, each artwork speaks to brokenness close to home. (On view in Chelsea through July 2nd.)
Yoko Ono, Mend Piece (Andrea Rosen Gallery, New York, 2015/2016), ceramic, glue, tape, scissors and twine, dimensions variable, 1966/2015.
In 2002, the pedestal under a rare early Renaissance sculpture by Tullio Lombardo at the Metropolitan Museum of Art buckled and the piece fell to the floor, smashing into several large pieces and hundreds of fragments. Conservators set to work on a twelve-year mission to restore Adam to his former glory as he contemplates the fruit that leads to mankind’s fall. (Through July 2015).
Tullio Lombardo, Adam, marble, c. 1490-95.
