James Siena at Sargent’s Daughters

Using his collection of manual typewriters, James Siena departs from his characteristic patterned, ruled-based paintings to designs resembling concrete poetry in a joint show with Orly Genger at Sargent’s Daughters. Including both legible numbers and abstract design, works like this one create an entertaining conundrum for the eye. (On the Lower East Side through Oct 26th).

James Siena, 1234567890 (ascending and descending in two directions), ink on paper, 11 x 8 ½ inches, 2013.

Barry McGee at Cheim & Read Gallery

These days, San Francisco street art legend Barry McGee is more likely to show his work in galleries and museums than outdoors, but his installation in the back room of Cheim & Read Gallery in Chelsea – a collection of around 400 elements bulging off the wall – pops with a white-cube defying energy.  (Through Oct 26th).  

Barry McGee, Untitled, 400 elements; ink, graphite, acrylic, screenprint, photographs on paper, found objects and frames, 2005-2013.