Claudia Comte at Barbara Gladstone Gallery

Inspired by Road Runner cartoons, Swiss artist Claudia Comte picked up a chainsaw as a young woman and started carving replica-cacti and more. Brancusi, Noguchi and other 20th century minimalists are references, along with more vernacular items, like the wine bottle opener that seems to have prompted this piece. Comte’s cheeky art historical remix results in a handsome installation. (At Barbara Gladstone Gallery’s 21st Street space through March 21st).

Claudia Comte, installation view of ‘No Melon No Lemon’ at Barbara Gladstone Gallery, Feb 2015.

Thomas Houseago at Hauser & Wirth

LA-based artist Thomas Houseago’s latest solo show marks a seismic shift from his signature, large-scale sculptures of human bodies to a huge structure that accommodates human bodies. Titled ‘Moun Room,’ a reference to his girlfriend’s first name, the piece’s geometric shapes evoke celestial bodies and art deco design while the entire structure resembles a sturdy shipping container and, paradoxically, a delicate paper lantern. (At Hauser & Wirth in Chelsea through January 17th).

Thomas Houseago, Moun Room (detail), Tuf-Cal, hemp, iron rebar, 1098.6 x 1388.1 x 365.8 cm, 2013-2014.