Current Must-See Shows in New York City and Upstate

In the contemporary art scene, engaging with history and current social issues has become a vital avenue for creating meaningful dialogue and transformation. Various artists are at the forefront of this movement, using their craft to examine and critique the historical and cultural narratives that shape our world.

Renée Green and Jim Shaw are two artists who delve into the manipulation of United States history, revealing how systemic abuses are often obscured by prevailing narratives. Green’s exhibition at Dia Beacon, titled “The Equator Has Moved,” extends beyond traditional art forms, intertwining text, images, and objects to weave a unique visual language. Her work encourages reflection on how meanings are constructed and understood, inviting viewers to reconsider established perspectives.

Simultaneously, Jim Shaw’s drawings at Gagosian explore the darker undercurrents of American pop culture. His work critiques the entwined nature of US politics and mainstream cultural fantasies, particularly those stemming from the 1950s. Shaw’s artistic exploration serves as a reminder of the selective myth-making in American society and its implications for current political and cultural climates.

In Brooklyn, Amant is showcasing “On Education,” a poignant exhibition that scrutinizes the US education system. Rather than presenting an outright condemnation, the show examines the system’s violence while offering alternative models through art. Artists like Frank Baniwa and Amber Rane Sibley contribute to a discourse on reimagining educational spaces and methods.

Meanwhile, Tim Hawkinson at Miles McEnery Gallery turns to painting with “Cabinet Pictures,” where ordinary scenes become otherworldly through his unique lens. The focus is on the hidden depths beyond the immediately visible, transforming mundane experiences into profound reflections.

Anna Zemánková’s posthumous exhibition of color drawings at Gladstone 64 offers a final chance to witness the intricate beauty of her work, characterized by its enchanting use of color and form.

Together, these exhibitions highlight the critical role of art in challenging dominant narratives and offering new ways of seeing and understanding the world. As we connect historical dots to envision a better future, these artists remind us of the power inherent in examining and reshaping the stories we tell.