This past Sunday saw us at the NYC Armory Show, where contemporary and modern art was filled in the gigantic space that are pier 92 & 94. I don't exactly consider myself an art enthusiast, but we were invited to go and, frankly, one cannot pass up a good day with the missus and a chance to do some casual shooting.
It's fun to walk around completely unnoticed amidst so many (and boy was it packed), but it can become challenging for someone set on taking a few pictures. Art does not always photograph well if you have no control over the lighting, positioning, or anything, for that matter. Still, I figured I'd do my best and just have fun with it.
Rose Quartz Hasselblad Camera- Daniel Arsham
There were some pretty interesting works there from all over the world. Sculptures paintings and dioramas filled the maze-like space, leading to outlandish expressions of fancy at every turn. Everything from the abstract to the obvious could be seen positioned almost side by side.
A very old Thing- Gilles Barbier
As a photographer, seeing the different types of expression helps inspire a sense of perspective. There was one exhibit that struck a cord with me. It consisted of a flight of arrows being shot simultaneously towards a single centered target. Each glistening copper arrow was suspended by translucent string from the ceiling, allowing for an action shot that could never be taken otherwise.
A Shout Within a Storm- Glenn Kaino
Moral of the story: Go to art shows. Actually, go everywhere.. with one body, one lens, and ready to take it all in. As photography great Jay Maisel says, "You have to be open to everything. Not only will you find what you're looking for, you'll find what you didn't even know you wanted, but need."
