#bitforms

Ceramic fragments resembling cracked mud ripple like water in response to visitors’ movements at Bitforms on the Lower East Side, creating a surprising and delightful effect, despite the worrying allusion to a parched environment. Part of Rozin’s new series of mechanical mirrors – interactive artworks that respond via motion sensor to a visitor’s movements which Rozin has created since the late 90s – the new mirrors inhabit a darkened gallery, creating a theatrical feeling that heightens the senses. (On view through March 17th). Daniel Rozin, Cracked Mud, ceramic fragments, custom software, motors, control electronics, motion sensors, light fixture, 4 x 132 x 132 inches, 2019.

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Bitforms at NADA NYC

"121 prepared dc-motors, cardboard elements 8x8cm" (2011) by Zimoun

A plano-convex lens dangling under three projectors creates a mesmerizing, constantly shifting pattern of light on the walls in Rafael Lozano-Hemmer’s latest solo show at Bitforms. In advance of a major exhibition of his interactive environments at the Hirshhorn this fall, the artist’s current exhibition tantalizes with small scale pieces from the past few years that evoke wonder at the intersection of technology and the natural world. (On view on the Lower East Side through Oct 21st). Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, Semioptics for Spinoza, projection version, computer, 3D sensor, projectors, metal bracket, motor, Arduino processor, lens, dimensions variable, 2012.

Yves Klein’s use of nude female models – daubed in his signature blue paint - as live paintbrushes increases in political incorrectness as the years go by. Now, Addie Wagenknecht has joined the ranks of artists who’ve responded with their own takes on Klein’s iconic objectification. Engaging a Roomba to paint as it skirted her nude body, Wagenknecht creates expressionist canvases with an algorithm and robot. (On view at Bitforms on the Lower East Side through Feb 11th). Addie Wagenknecht, self-portrait – snow on cedar (winter), IKB dry pigment and resin on canvas, 80 x 90 inches, 2017.

Real time seismic activity interrupts the shifting abstract patterns on Daniel Canogar’s curving panels, merging art and distant, powerful forces. Peeling off the wall on flexible LED tiles arranged on an armature, ‘Echo’ strains for our attention and gets it. (At Bitforms on the Lower East Side through July 30th). Daniel Canogar, Echo, from the series Echo, flexible LED tiles, power supply unit, media player, LED screen hardware, 129.5 x 96.5 x 25.4cm, 2016.

Italian artist Quayola revisits the subject of Laocoon, the ill-fated Trojan priest in ancient Greek mythology, in an arresting sculpture that combines a digital, geometric rendering of the priest’s head with a realistic representation. Coated in oxidized iron powder, the sculpture appears both aged and new. (At Bitforms Gallery on the Lower East Side through April 9th). Quayola, Laocoon Fragment G_003.V, iron, epoxy, fiberglass, 14.1 x 12.7 x 12 inches, 2016.