Exploring UFO Phenomena Without Featuring Flying Saucers
**Art Review: Voice of Space Exhibition at the Drawing Center**
The Drawing Center in Manhattan presents “Voice of Space: UFOs and Paranormal Phenomena,” an exhibition that explores the cosmic and the mysterious. The show, which runs through February 1, 2026, attempts to engage visitors with the enigmatic themes of UFOs and paranormal experiences, though it struggles to fully achieve its ambitious goals.
One of the standout pieces in the exhibition is René Magritte’s 1931 “Voice of Space,” a cool, kitschy yet commanding oil painting depicting three giant gray orbs over a landscape, inviting reflection on the mysteries of the universe. However, the exhibition overall lacks a cohesive focus, with many artworks in need of contextual wall texts to aid understanding.
The show features a mix of works, from visionary drawings by Hunkpapa Lakota artist He Nupa Wanica to Howardena Pindell’s cerebral painting. Among the more captivating pieces are David Weiss’s sketches and a UFO trajectory drawing by M.A. Ulyashev.
The exhibition’s identity crisis stems from its attempt to merge the distinct yet overlapping themes of extraterrestrial life and paranormal phenomena, diluting the impact of both. Located in a smaller gallery, the show risks being overshadowed by other exhibitions in the center.
In contrast to last year’s “Sci-Fi, Magick, Queer L.A.” at USC Fisher Museum, which embraced drama and spectacle, “Voice of Space” shies away from embracing its peculiar themes. The inclusion of artist Paulina Peavy, with her drawings inspired by alleged extraterrestrial experiences, highlights the exhibition’s potential, but the works lack context to convey their full meaning.
Although the exhibition avoids clichéd flying saucers, a few deliberately bizarre elements might have enhanced its engagement with the audience. The collection could benefit from more contemporary artists who embrace the exhibition’s whimsical themes.
In essence, “Voice of Space” appeals to those intrigued by the universe’s mysteries but leaves the viewer wanting more in terms of depth and focus. The exhibition has the groundwork for an impactful exploration of the bizarre, but it could use a bit more of the theatrical spirit desirable in an art exhibition of this nature.