Son a Thai diplomat, globe-trotting artist Rirkrit Tiravanija has traveled the world for much of his life. On tables covered in rich, purple felt, copper reproductions of the artist’s passports from throughout the years glint in the abundant sunlight of Gavin Brown’s Grand Street gallery like bars of precious metal. (On view through Oct 28th).
Globe-trotting photographer and writer Teju Cole’s new book ‘Blind Spot’ explores perception through shots including this grid of curtained balconies in Beirut, an image that suggests diversity packed into a small space. Alongside is a text in which Cole bemoans a lost roll of film while acknowledging that his original viewing experience is what he most values. (On view at Steven Kasher Gallery through August 11th).
Monira Al Qadiri’s video ‘Travel Prayer’ combines footage of a camel race with the text of a traditional prayer for travel. Once, children were regularly injured and trafficked to race the animals, now camels are directed remotely by robot jockeys with mini whips. The prayers request for traveling mercy is powerfully apt. (At Station Independent Projects through July 23rd).
Cutaway cars seen on a trip to Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer studios inspired Greg Drasler to paint views of vehicles from multiple perspectives at once. Here, a car sits sandwiched between a vast sky and a flat, patchwork patterned plain, reflected as if partially submerged under water. The effect is strangely cinematic and painterly all at once. (At Betty Cunningham Gallery through Aug 5th).
Cynthia Daignault, installation view of Light Atlas at Lisa Cooley Gallery, oil on linen, overall dimensions variable, in 360 parts, 8 x 10 inches each, 2015.
