A Stormy Week of Art in NYC
Reviews on major exhibitions at the New Museum, Guggenheim, and MoMA PS1, what it takes to get a fair union contract, and finding joy in the history of concrete.
Last week's nor'easter brought a mix of relief and frustration to those who ventured out in New York City. While it provided a welcome respite from the intensity of Armory Week, the rain dampened the soles of many sneaker soles. Despite the gloomy weather, some critics managed to process the art they saw. Stephanie Wambugu praised Arthur Jafa's retrospective at the New Museum, noting its mix of esotericism and prescriptive art.
Aruna D'Souza examined Taryn Simon's spiral of curiosity at the Guggenheim, while Alex Santana questioned Teresa Margolles's use of violent imagery at MoMA PS1. For those seeking more traditional experiences, the Museum of the City of New York unveiled its new permanent exhibition on activism. Unionized staff at the Whitney, Brooklyn Museum, and American Folk Art Museums were negotiating tentative agreements, with the Whitney union planning to strike on October 5.
Meanwhile, John Wilson's documentary, The History of Concrete, offered a humorous take on lateral thinking.
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