MoMA PS1 recently unveiled the artist lineup for the sixth installment of its renowned “Greater New York” exhibition. This highly anticipated showcase, which occurs every five years, shines a spotlight on emerging and mid-career contemporary artists. Set to kick off on April 16, the exhibition will take place in the museum’s revamped school building and will feature a diverse array of site-specific installations, new commissions, and seldom-seen works by 53 artists and collectives who call New York City home.
In celebration of MoMA PS1’s 50th anniversary, this year’s edition of “Greater New York” will run concurrently with the prestigious Whitney Biennial for the very first time. The exhibition aims to explore themes of resistance and survival amidst the pervasive integration of surveillance technology in the city, as well as the economic challenges that have pushed the city to its limits.
The lineup of artists in “Greater New York” predominantly focuses on sculpture, installation art, contemporary painting, and new media. Notably, the exhibition will feature three young native New Yorkers – Coumba Samba, Piero Penizzotto, and Taína Cruz – who are among the youngest participants in the show.
A series of artist performances is also scheduled to accompany the exhibition between May and June. Taína Cruz, whose work will also be showcased in the Whitney Biennial, expressed the personal significance of being included in “Greater New York,” emphasizing her deep connection to the city and the inspiration drawn from its vibrant streets.
Piero Penizzotto, known for his life-size papier-mâché figures, shared his excitement about being selected for the exhibition, highlighting themes of intimacy, distance, and the vital presence of family in his work.
Additionally, the activist collective Red Canary Song, which advocates for Asian migrant massage workers and sex workers in NYC, will be featured in the exhibition. Through their installations, the collective sheds light on the experiences of its members within massage parlors and the surrounding environment.
The exhibition will showcase a diverse roster of artists, including Marie Angeletti, Sophie Becker, Jay Carrier, and many others. Each artist brings a unique perspective and artistic practice to the table, creating a rich tapestry of contemporary art that reflects the dynamic cultural landscape of New York City.
“Greater New York” promises to be a groundbreaking exhibition that celebrates the city’s vibrant art scene and the talents of its homegrown artists. With a focus on innovation, resilience, and artistic expression, the show is set to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impact on the contemporary art world.
