Though it resembles an oversized segment of wall and molding, Leonardo Drew’s ‘Number 201’ is a standout in Sikkema Jenkins & Co’s current nature-focused show. Using materials originally derived from nature and often used in building, Drew’s construction marries nature and culture in enticing forms. (On view in Chelsea through Feb 24th).
After complaining that she could paint her signature subject matter – little girls behaving badly – blindfolded, that’s just what Kim Dingle did to create the work in her recent series. Using her hand as a guide, Dingle maps out characters like these from memory in oil on Plexiglas. Here, two slightly sinister looking girls, drawn with fluidity and proportions reminiscent of Mickey Mouse, exchange compliments on each others’ wild hair. (On view at Sperone Westwater Gallery on the Lower East Side through March 3rd).
Quilts by Gee’s Bend Quiltmakers Mary Lee Bendolph (background) and Loretta Pettway Bennett (foreground) are the highlight of Kaufman Repetto’s current group show, an exhibition that asks what’s new for art as more female artists have come to prominence over the past several decades. Bennett’s denim quilt suggests that the contributions of many have produced a prize result. (On view in Chelsea through Feb 24th).
Li Wei flies through the air and walks on water in photos at Galerie Richard that appear to document gravity defying feats and even common sense. Using mirrors (here, this technique is obvious), cranes and wires, the Beijing-based artist gives himself superpowers that other artists can only dream of. (On view on the Lower East Side through March 11th).
Jamian Juliano-Villani enchants critics with her latest show of realist paintings featuring “plenty funny” (Art Forum) yet “haunting (Art in America) collaged-together imagery. The “closely watched rising star’s” (Artnet) “impressive…gonzo paintings” (The New Yorker) include this blue-furred model strutting the runway with Key Food bags – a setup that offers entre into a strange alternative universe. (On view at JTT Gallery on the Lower East Side through Feb 24th).
