Two shows on-view right now—one uptown, one down—highlight the ongoing work of BFA Photography and Video faculty member Jessica Craig-Martin and Brian Rutenberg (MFA 1989 Fine Arts). While their subjects, media and aesthetic ethos are far apart—Craig-Martin photographs exceedingly well-heeled folks, Rutenberg paints abstract Southern landscapes—both artists use the current exhibitions to further explore the topics and techniques that have preoccupied their respective practices for years.
Working excessively fancy parties as an event photographer for Vanity Fair and The New Yorker grants Jessica Craig-Martin unusual privilege to the über-privileged; apart from her commissioned work she makes photographs that are as brightly lit, colorful and crisp as the ones in the glossies but that zoom in on the details. In her latest exhibition, “Public Relations,” tightly cropped images—a chic up-do, gold brocode, lots of jewels and champagne—cut incisively into the lavish gaiety and over-the-top presentations of wealth. Not mocking nor glorifying, her eye is fascinated by the glitz and glamor that few can resist looking at. “The on-camera flash declares my presence,” she writes. “I am part of the problem.” On view at Nathalie Karg Gallery, 291 Grand Street, through April 16.
