In the world of art, the New Museum curator Gary Carrion-Murayari's Frieze favorites offer a captivating glimpse into the diverse and dynamic art scene. These selections, ranging from the underappreciated Arthur Simms to the kinetic Haegue Yang, provide a unique perspective on the contemporary art landscape. But what makes these picks truly intriguing is the personal connection and the broader implications they carry. Let's delve into the details and explore the stories behind these artistic treasures.
The Underappreciated and the Unseen
One of the most striking pieces in Carrion-Murayari's collection is Arthur Simms' 'Insect in the Wall' (2024). What makes this work particularly fascinating is the artist's use of discarded objects, a nod to the Jamaican assemblage tradition. Simms' studio, located on Staten Island, is a testament to the power of transformation and the beauty of found objects. This piece, in particular, invites us to reconsider the value of everyday items and the potential for art to emerge from the most unexpected sources. Personally, I find it inspiring to see how artists can breathe new life into the mundane, turning trash into treasure.
The Poetry of Everyday Life
Haegue Yang's 'A Matter of Fact (from Dan)—Peep Asymmetry' (2025) is a kinetic masterpiece that reflects the poetry of everyday surroundings. The work's ability to capture the essence of the ordinary and present it in a captivating manner is truly remarkable. What many people don't realize is that Yang's art often explores the relationship between the familiar and the extraordinary, challenging our perceptions of what is beautiful and what is mundane. From my perspective, this piece is a reminder that art can be found in the most unexpected places, and that the everyday can be extraordinary when viewed through a creative lens.
Environmental History and Cultural Heritage
Abel Rodriguez and Aycoobo-Wilson Rodríguez's 'Terraza Vajá' (2022) is a powerful statement on the history of the environment in Colombia. The father-son duo's work, which was showcased at the 2024 Venice Biennale, highlights the importance of cultural heritage and the impact of human actions on the natural world. What this really suggests is that art can be a powerful tool for raising awareness and prompting action. By exploring the environmental history of Colombia, Rodriguez and Rodríguez invite us to reflect on our own relationship with the planet and the role we play in its preservation.
Immigration and Identity
Sung Tieu's 'Untitled' (2026) is a conceptual and political piece that delves into the history of immigration in Germany. The artist's work, which was featured in the experimental and exceptional program at Emalin, is a powerful statement on identity and belonging. This raises a deeper question: how do we define ourselves in a world shaped by migration and cultural exchange? In my opinion, Tieu's piece is a reminder that art can be a powerful vehicle for exploring complex social issues and challenging our assumptions about identity and belonging.
Amazonian Connections
Pedro Neves' 'Untitled' (2026) is a work that triggered a personal connection for Carrion-Murayari, as it reminded him of his Amazonian heritage. The artist's use of color and texture is a nod to the rich cultural heritage of the Amazon, a region that is often overlooked in the art world. What many people don't realize is that the Amazon is a treasure trove of artistic expression, with a unique and vibrant cultural identity. This piece, in particular, invites us to explore the connections between art, culture, and identity, and to appreciate the diversity of artistic expression from around the world.
The Intricacies of Small-Scale Art
Melvin Way's 'Purple Haze' (around 2008) is a small-scale masterpiece that showcases the artist's alchemical drawings on tiny bits of paper. Way's work is a testament to the power of detail and the beauty of the intricate. What makes this piece particularly fascinating is the artist's ability to convey complex ideas and emotions through the smallest of details. Personally, I find it inspiring to see how artists can create something so powerful and meaningful from something so small and seemingly insignificant.
In conclusion, Carrion-Murayari's Frieze favorites offer a captivating glimpse into the diverse and dynamic art scene. These selections, ranging from the underappreciated to the kinetic, provide a unique perspective on the contemporary art landscape. By exploring the stories behind these artistic treasures, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the power of art to transform, challenge, and inspire. From the poetry of everyday life to the environmental history of Colombia, these pieces remind us of the importance of art in our lives and the role it plays in shaping our understanding of the world.
