Lee Bul at Lehmann Maupin Gallery

The mirrored, cave-like entrance to Lee Bul’s latest solo show at Lehmann Maupin Gallery dazzles. Once inside, however, the ceiling height diminishes rapidly and visitors emerge into the main gallery at an uncomfortable crouch. Failed promises are a recurring theme in Lee Bul’s oeuvre; here she sends a strong message from the beginning of the exhibition. (Through Feb 11th).

Lee Bul, Souterrain, plywood on wooden frame, acrylic mirror, acrylic paint, LED lighting and electronic wiring, 107.87 x 141.73 x 188.98 inches, 2012/16
Lee Bul, Souterrain, plywood on wooden frame, acrylic mirror, acrylic paint, LED lighting and electronic wiring, 107.87 x 141.73 x 188.98 inches, 2012/16

Lee Bul at Lehmann Maupin Gallery

Korean artist Lee Bul’s ‘Via Negativa II’ appears to hover mirage-like above the gallery floor, a perfect intro to the disorienting experience of walking through Bul’s mirrored maze to an inner sanctum of lights that appears to extend into infinity. (At Lehmann Maupin Gallery‘s Lower East Side location through June 21st).

Lee Bul, installation view of Via Negativa II, polycarbonate sheet, aluminum frame, acrylic and polycarbonate mirrors, steel, stainless-steel, mirror, two way mirror, LED lighting, silkscreen ink, 275 x 500 x 700cm, 2014.