Taryn Simon’s Evidence as Spectacle
Hrag Vartanian on a play about art, fame, and infatuation; Aruna D’Souza on Taryn Simon at the Guggenheim; the latest in the Leon Black saga; and more.
The Wreck of the Unbelievable, a play at the Brick Theater, explores the imagined secret romance of deceased artist Damien Hirst with a younger male artist who creates images of holes. The role of this lover, named Shape, is portrayed by playwright Sleth, who appears sprawled on a disheveled mattress during the show. The play, while parodic, delves into the themes of fame, infatuation, and the challenges artists face in the pursuit of success.
Critics hail the performance as a "more shadowy version" of typical romantic narratives, emphasizing the bittersweet longing for something unattainable yet enticing. Meanwhile, Taryn Simon's Guggenheim exhibition, which follows the life of an unnamed federal agent, leaves viewers feeling helpless. Artist Liu Wei's new works for the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Genesis Facade Commission will also be on display.
Congress is investigating billionaire and MoMA board member Leon Black, who plans to convert a Manhattan property into a foundation for his $5 billion art collection.
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