These Are New York City's 4 Must-See Exhibits This Season
From iconic classics to modern marvels, the works showcased in these four exhibitons across the city are must-sees this season.
A view of Spike Lee: Creative Sources at the Brooklyn Museum
SPIKE LEE: CREATIVE SOURCES
Spike Lee (2023)
American filmmaker Spike Lee, director of iconic films such as Malcolm X and Do the Right Thing, is featured in The Spike Lee: Creative Sources exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum. The fascinating exhibition showcases more than 350 pieces that have inspired Lee, like sports memorabilia, photographs and works by artists such as Michael Ray Charles and Deborah Roberts. Says Kimberli Gant, curator of Modern and Contemporary Art at the Brooklyn Museum, “By making Lee’s collection accessible to the public, this showcase celebrates his legacy while honoring his deep connection to Brooklyn, a place that has been an integral part of his storytelling.” Through Feb. 4, 200 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn
PICASSO IN FONTAINEBLEAU
A view of Picasso in Fontainebleau
As part of the international “Picasso Celebration 1973-2023,” MoMA presents Picasso in Fontainebleau, showcasing works such as “Three Women at the Spring” and “Three Musicians.” The exhibit delves into the artist’s stay in Fontainebleau, France during the summer of 1921 and challenges conventional notions of artistic evolution. Through Feb. 17, 11 W. 53 St.
GOING DARK: THE CONTEMPORARY FIGURE AT THE EDGE OF VISIBILITY
Sandra Mujinga, “Spectral Keepers” (2020, tulle fabric, cotton fabric, nylon thread, threaded rods, wire clamps and cellular concrete), four figures, 109 7/16 inches by 31 1/2 inches by 15 3/4 inches each, four baskets, 30 5/16 inches by 30 5/16 inches by 38 3/16 inches each
On view at the Guggenheim, this exhibit features pieces that have partially obscured or hidden figures that explore the concept of humans’ desires to be seen and their desires to be hidden from sight. Works showcased “go dark” due to the darkening tools used by the artists, such as blurring and brightening tools. Going Dark showcases more than 100 pieces of art from 1960 to present day, by 28 artists, most of whom are Black, and more than half of whom are women. Through April 7, 1071 Fifth Ave.
FRANK OCKENFELS 3: INTROSPECTION
Frank Ockenfels 3, “GEORGE CLOONEY” (2005)
Frank Ockenfels III, best known for his photographs of A-listers like George Clooney and David Bowie, creates art in a whimsical and spontaneous fashion. Frank Ockenfels 3: Introspection tracks his process and journey over the past three decades. Original works, including photographs, paintings and collages, are on view, as well as pieces that span multiple techniques and include mixed media. Sophie Wright, Executive Director of Fotografiska New York, says, “Not only has he seamlessly traversed the bounds between fine and commercial art for decades, he also continues to push boundaries and develop new languages for what photography can be and how it can play with other media.” Through March, 281 Park Ave. South
