Alex Anderson at Deli Gallery

Roses float through the air in Alex Anderson’s wall-mounted earthenware sculpture at Deli Gallery, evoking a romantic daydream. But whimsy turns to horror as it becomes apparent that the flowers are being severed from their stems by flying needle-like forms, resulting in tiny spurts of blood that suggest human, not plant anatomy.  Presented on a mirror-like form (other shapes resemble serving platters and emoji hearts), in which we should expect to see our reflection, the piece prompts self-examination. Set against blue skies and wispy clouds, the piece warns of vulnerability in the virtual realm.  (On view in Tribeca through May 7th).

Alex Anderson, Stratospheric Destruction of Romance, earthenware, glaze, gold luster, 21 x 17 x 2 inches, 2022.