Photography in New York City has taken a captivating turn, with a reinvigorated focus on gallery exhibits that offer unique glimpses into unseen worlds. This resurgence comes after a period largely dominated by figurative painting, signaling a refreshing new chapter for the art scene.
A myriad of remarkable shows across New York are showcasing the power of photography to capture moments that transcend representation. One such exhibit, “Refracted Times,” at Marian Goodman, features Boris Mikhailov’s archival presentation that delves into the lesser-known aspects of his native Ukraine. Alongside this, new works by An-My Lê, including “Dark Star,” present breathtaking large-format views of the night sky above Mesa Verde, New Mexico. These images, reminiscent of 19th-century prints, offer a unique perspective on landscapes and skies, inviting viewers to contemplate the unseen.
At Sean Kelly’s “Stony the Road,” Dawoud Bey takes viewers on a thought-provoking journey through oversized exposures of dense foliage in a shadowy wood. These images, inspired by historical events along the Richmond Slave Trail in Virginia, shed light on hidden narratives in the natural world. Bey’s work continues to unveil layers of meaning, urging audiences to explore the stories that lie beneath the surface.
Larry Clark’s portraits of New York City skaters at Ruttowski;68 offer a glimpse into the intricate social fabric of urban communities. Through these images, Clark captures the essence of teenage life, blending in and standing out in a world teeming with contradictions. The raw authenticity of his work resonates with viewers, highlighting the complex dynamics of youth culture.
In “TRANCE” at Bortolami, Paul Mpagi Sepuya challenges conventional notions of social optics by deconstructing and reconstructing the visual narrative. Through intimate semi-self-portraits and reflective motifs, Sepuya explores the intricate mechanics of representation, inviting viewers to question their perceptions of reality. His work delves into the complexities of visual storytelling, offering a fresh perspective on the art of photography.
Roe Ethridge’s “Shore Front Parkway” at Andrew Kreps pushes the boundaries of photography by blending staged studio shots with spontaneous encounters. By juxtaposing real and idealized landscapes, Ethridge invites viewers to ponder the fine line between reality and imagination. His work captures fleeting moments of beauty in everyday scenes, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Shannon Ebner’s “The Seaweed Synthesizer” at Kaufmann Repetto immerses viewers in a multisensory exploration of sound and image. Through photographs, sculptures, and found objects, Ebner blurs the lines between text and image, inviting audiences to experience the visual and aural dimensions of her work. Her conceptual approach challenges traditional artistic boundaries, creating a dynamic interplay between different senses.
John Divola’s “The Ghost in the Machine” at Yancey Richardson pushes the boundaries of photography by exploring abandoned spaces and challenging visual norms. Through a juxtaposition of AI-generated images and vintage series, Divola invites viewers to contemplate the evolving nature of photography. His work delves into the complex relationship between photographer and subject, revealing the transformative power of the medium.
In essence, these diverse exhibitions in New York City’s art scene underscore the enduring allure of photography as a medium that captures the essence of our world. From hidden narratives to boundary-pushing aesthetics, each show offers a unique perspective on the power of visual storytelling. As viewers immerse themselves in these captivating displays, they are reminded of the profound impact that photography can have on our perceptions and understanding of the world around us.
