The Whitney and Chelsea

"Untitled (Part of What Distinguishes...)" 1990 - oil, sythetic polymer, oil stick, and graphite

Glen Liagon at the Whitney displayed a strong use of then contemporary popular styles to talk about race. Liagon's heyday was in the late 1980s. While most of his work utilizes text (a risky move), it adequately adapts the cultural language in order to critique culture. Only through June 5, the exhibit is worth a look. Many artists approach race, but few do so as successfully and with such tounge-in-cheek wit as Liagon.

Chelsea opened many new exhibits last evening; or at least receptions were held. As per usual, it was vapid rehash. The trends of grunge art and poppy colored crafty found in Austin, TX, for the past few years is now also found in Chelsea with pom poms, old clothing painted onto canvas, and undisguised styrofoam.

The exception of the evening: Beverly McIver at Betty Cuningham Gallery. Though all self-portraits, the work was lively and solid with an expressive palate. McIver's work is a joy to view with obvious content.