If you’re an artist who thinks your work might be improved by being destroyed, you might want to talk to New York based artist Lucas Ajemian. Ajemian has created this work – reminiscent of a reclining figure in a weathered fresco from a Roman villa – and the others in his latest solo show at Marlborough Gallery’s Lower East Side location by treating, then machine washing other artists’ paintings. (Through June 8th).
Lucas Ajemian, Laundered Painting (20 x 16) I, painting on canvas, 2014.
Though toppled, David Opdyke’s utility pole appears to be sprouting new growth, suggesting that man-made inventions can have a life of their own, or that (even old) technology is an unstoppable force. (At Magnan Metz Gallery through May 31st.)
David Opdyke, Secondary Growth Line Extension, reclaimed NJCP&L utility pole, Styrofoam, steel, resin, paint, glass insulator caps, 91 x 92 x 60 inches, 2014.
As part of her latest solo show titled ‘Divorce,’ New York artist Anicka Yi has installed two driers in the gallery. Open the doors, and a diffuser sprays a strong scent of fried foods blended with other odors to convey the repulsion of a foreign yet familiar smell left behind. (At 47 Canal through June 8th).
Anicka Yi, Washing Away of Wrongs, 2 stainless steel dryer doors, 2 fragrances, diffusers, plexiglass, 120 x 131 x 26.5 inches, 2014.
Moscow-born, NYC-based painter Sanya Kantarovsky’s latest paintings at Chelsea’s Casey Kaplan Gallery explore awkward and absurd relationships. This twisted dupe appears to be horrified as he willingly bends over to have his hand crushed by a green-booted figure. (Through June 21st).
Sanya Kantarovsky, L’appetit, oil, watercolor, pastel, oilstick on canvas, 47” x 35,” 2014.
Sam Moyer, known for working her canvases over with ink and bleach, pairs up weathered cloth (on top) with slabs of marble (below), making a knowing comparison between her own process art and nature’s rather slower processes. (At Rachel Uffner Gallery on the Lower East Side through June 8th).
Sam Moyer, Zola, stone, ink on canvas mounted to mdf panel, 80 x 69 x .75 inches, 2014.