The 30th anniversary of the Armory Show is being celebrated this year at the Javits Center with over 235 gallery presentations. To honor the best of the best, Hyperallergic has launched the Armory Show Booth Awards, recognizing booths that stand out in various categories. From the shiniest to the most exclusionary, the winners have been selected based on their unique characteristics and impressive presentations.
One of the categories was “Best for Someone Who Has a Complicated Relationship With Their Family,” won by Ry Rocklen’s “Shelf Life (Blue Angels)” presented by Wilding Cran Gallery. This artwork is perfect for those facing family dilemmas during the holidays, offering a relatable escape.
Another category, “Nerdiest Art History Reference,” was awarded to Duane Thomas Gallery for their dedication to Lucy Lippard’s feminist essays on women’s art. The booth showcased works by various artists alongside a collection of Lippard’s texts and archival materials, creating a deep and meaningful display.
Tschabalala Self’s installation “Bodega Run” presented by Two Palms was crowned as the “Most Concrete Jungle Where Dreams Are Made Of,” capturing the essence of New York City and its diverse cultural influences. The artwork delves into themes of race, migration, and the American Dream, resonating with the city’s iconic corner stores.
In the category of “Most Recumbent,” Chiffon Thomas’s “Untitled (Dome, Figure 1)” took home the grand prize for its unique portrayal of supine and prone figures. Other artists like Jeanne Silverthorne and Lydia Pettit also received special distinctions for their works in this theme.
The “Shiniest” award went to Oliver Herring’s knitted silver Mylar works presented by the Shanghai gallery Bank. These festive sculptures pay tribute to the drag artist Ethyl Eichelberger, adding a deeper meaning to their glittering appearance.
Hew Locke’s sculptures, including “Chariots of the Gods” and works from the “Souvenirs” series, earned the title of “Most Likely to Get Raided by the Manhattan DA” for their critique of imperialism and empire. The intricate details and thought-provoking concepts behind the installation caught the attention of the judges.
“Most Suited for a Workaholic Rather Than Someone Who Takes Vacations” was awarded to Scott Reeder’s works presented by Saenger Galería, offering a vibrant escape for those caught up in the hustle of work.
Chris Soal’s sculptures, reminiscent of mutant zombie fungus, won the category of “Most Likely to Resurface Your Worst The Last of Us Nightmares,” showcasing a mastery of craft and inventiveness rarely seen at an art fair.
Rodrigo Valenzuela’s hand sculptures and pale photos at the booth of Asya Geisberg Gallery were deemed the “Most Duchampian,” evoking the spirit of Marcel Duchamp’s groundbreaking work from the 1913 Armory Show.
Patricia Piccinini’s realistic sculptures made of silicone and real human hair earned the title of “Creepiest,” delving into themes of genetic engineering and biotechnology that may unsettle some viewers.
Lastly, a “Special Mention” was given to the “Most Exclusionary” category, highlighting the art-world gatekeeping and elitism that even extended to the restrooms at the Armory Show.
Overall, the winners of the Armory Show Booth Awards represent a diverse range of artists and themes, showcasing the depth and creativity present at the prestigious art fair.
