Leo Villareal at Pace Gallery

Can you capture the feeling of a sunset and make it last?  New media artist Leo Villareal has explained that his latest ‘digital sculptures’ – LED lights and electronics behind acrylic panels – at Chelsea’s Pace Gallery, have a similar effect to watching natural phenomena.  Titled ‘Interstellar’ and inspired by images from space, including photos from the James Webb Telescope, the new wall-mounted works manifest in a range of palettes, from calming blue/greens to blazing yellow/orange tones.  Powered by custom coding, the imagery constantly morphs, enticing viewers to linger.  (On view through April 29th).

Leo Villareal, installation view of ‘Interstellar’ at Pace Gallery, April 2023.

Parker Ito at Andrea Rosen Gallery

Parker Ito’s riotous mess of an installation in Andrea Rosen Gallery’s summer group show epitomizes his collage art approach. A painting dangling from the ceiling brings together unconnected, sampled phrases like ‘I’m really creative’ and ‘One Love’ against a background of LED light strings, keeping meaning elusive on purpose. (In Chelsea through August 14th).

Parker Ito, One Love/Everyday people/tell me/jelly manhood I’m wearing those pants now/I’m pretty creative /Essay coming soon), oil on canvas, acrylic on aluminum strainers, artist frame, hanging hardware, LED lights, 122 x 96 x 2.5 inches, 2013-15