Forest mist and a pool’s smooth surface mirror each other in color and tranquility in Ian Mwesiga’s intriguing painting ‘Man and His Shadow’ at the FLAG Art Foundation, but the scene isn’t as peaceful as it first appears. The work is a standout in the Kampala-based artist’s first New York solo show and one of several that feature pools of water as troubled places. In one painting, a woman glides underwater while a friend acts as lookout under a ‘no swimming’ sign; in another piece, a corporate logo dominates the scene. Here, the water looks least inviting for a dip, as fallen leaves indicate a change of season that might bring a chill to the air. Standing between two cracked columns that suggest ruins and leaning on a more solid-looking, modern wall, a young man in swim trunks peels off a sock. Apparently the sole agent who can decide how this scenario moves forward, viewers look to him, anticipating what will happen next. (On view in Chelsea through May 4th).
