The architecture of the Guggenheim in New York, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, has seen plenty of criticism. Its curving walls are difficult to hang things on, it’s ramp-like floors conflict with 90-degree artwork and the circulation is inferior when compared to more traditional museums.
Perhaps responding to that criticism the curators of the Guggenheim have brought Cai Guo-Giang’s mid-career retrospective to Wright’s New York masterpiece. In addition to “Drawing freely from ancient mythology, military history, Taoist cosmology, extraterrestrial observations, Maoist revolutionary tactics, Buddhist philosophy, gunpowder-related technology, Chinese medicine, and methods of terrorist violence,” Guo-Giang created a site-specific installation that makes the museum seem such a perfect fit…for very specific art.
Then entire main rotunda is overtaken by Guo-Giang’s work. When you enter the museum you’re immediately struck by the Chevrolets that rise to the ceiling in the spirit of a backwards back-flip. (Suspended off the ground is exactly where cars belong in cities, although I’d prefer no cars). At the top of the museum there is a projection of a series of Guo-Giang’s gunpowder performances. This proved good to view first. Wright intended you to start your journey there anyway.
I’ll return later this week (Wednesday?) with a camera and upload some from the camera-friendly ground floor. The installation wasn't completed as of Sunday. Check the Guggenheim website before you go to see if the installation is completed or to read more about the artist and the installation.
This post brought to you by ArtPass, courtesy of my boss, courtesy of his boyfriend, courtesy of Hugo Boss.