The pyramid on the back of the U.S. dollar bill – symbolizing long lasting power – has been rendered in outlines of U.S. currency in this piece by Nari Ward (seen here in detail). The paper money edges are askew, however, suggesting an unsound structure, while cowry shells (once used as currency elsewhere in the world) create straight and sound lines. (At Lehman Maupin Gallery in Chelsea through August 25th).
Dionisio Gonzalez at Galerie Richard
Spanish photographer Dionisio Gonzelez ignites the imagination with ideas for redeveloping New York’s skyline, were money no object. Instead of envisioning skyscrapers, Gonzalez proposes connected rooftop parks and walkways that create green space for all. Here, transit routes converge near Central Park on Fifth Ave. (On the Lower East Side at Galerie Richard through August 27th).
Myoung Ho Lee at Yossi Milo Gallery
Studio portraits and landscape photography merge in Myoung Ho Lee’s series of trees in Mongolia and Korea, set against a white canvas backdrop. Lee digitally removes ropes and assistants, suggesting a less mediated encounter with a solitary and wonderful product of nature. (At Yossi Milo Gallery in Chelsea through Aug 25th).
Paa Joe in ‘The Coffins of Paa Joe and the Pursuit of Happiness’ at Jack Shainman Gallery
Paa Joe’s fantasy coffins, which can take the shape of a giant coke bottle, lion and more, could make anyone glad to be buried. His untitled rendition of a fort in Ghana is more (appropriately) serious, depicting a 17th century Dutch slave trade outpost. It is one of a series commissioned by late collector and Jack Shainman Gallery co-founder Claude Simard, currently featured at the gallery’s 24th Street and Kinderhook, NY locations. (On view at Jack Shainman Gallery in Chelsea through Aug 25th).
Samuel Gratacap in ‘Notions of Home’ at Yancey Richardson Gallery
Shot at Choucha, a Tunisian transit camp that has been a temporary home to hundreds of thousands of refugees, Samuel Gratacap’s stark image of cobbled-together UN tents speaks to the innovation and desperation of camp inhabitants. (At Yancey Richardson Gallery in Chelsea through Aug 25th).