Traditional women’s work becomes political in an international way in Mona Hatoum’s latest solo show at Chelsea’s Alexander and Bonin Gallery. Featuring panels woven by Palestinian refugees in Lebanon, the installation symbolizes cultural practices interrupted by war. (Through October 18th).
Mona Hatoum with Inaash, Twelve Windows, 12 pieces of Palestinian embroidery on fabric, wooden clothes pegs, steel cable, each 39 3/8 x 29 3/8 inches, 2012-13.
Tom Friedman, master of the surprisingly crafted object (e.g. an accident victim made from paper, a huge star made from tiny toothpicks) doesn’t disappoint in his latest solo show at Luhring Augustine’s Bushwick space. A standout is ‘Moot,’ a guitar, microphone with stand and stool created entirely from Styrofoam and paint. (Through August 22nd).
Tom Friedman, Moot, paint and Styrofoam, 2014.
New York ceramic artist Kathy Butterly’s new work at 57th Street gallery Tibor de Nagy demonstrates her inexhaustible ability to invent new, evocative forms for both standard vessels and abstract shapes. Though less than 9 inches high, the tiny artworks are powerful. (Through April 12th).
Kathy Butterly, Chatter (foreground), clay, glaze, 6 x 7 x 4 1/8 inches, 2013.
Tempting and repulsive at the same time, this table loaded with cakes, fruit, petits fours and other delectables crafted from porcelain by young Brooklyn-based artist Jessica Stoller equate the female body with excess via eye-popping abundance. (At PPOW Gallery through Feb 8th).
Jessica Stoller, Still Life, porcelain, china paint, luster, mixed-media, 65 x 47 x 23 ½,” 2013.
Despite ceramicist Peter Voulkos’ huge influence on contemporary ceramic art, New York hasn’t been treated to a solo presentation of his work since 1997. Through this week, 57th Street gallery Franklin Parrasch breaks the dry spell with a sampling of work from the 50s to the 90s from a single private collection. (Through Nov 23rd).
Peter Voulkos, Iron Head, ceramic, 1990.
