Portraits and Not
Nov 7, 2011 – Jun 11, 2012

Earlier this fall, when Allan and I first began discussing the current installation, I wasn't sure if there would be a unifying idea, and I was curious to see how the spaces in the house would connect. After seeing it installed, I was struck by concentrations of work by three artists, and how they provide a backbone for the experience of the house this year.

Seeing Janine Antoni's work fill the first floor gallery space, transforming it into a kind of portrait gallery, is a special moment in the history of the house. Janine is an artist who has become central to the collection, as well as a good friend over the years, and the intimacy and power of her work resonates so beautifully when hung together here.

Troy Brauntuch, an artist who continues to make work about the roles of images in contemporary society, has only recently become central to the collection, and his work in the library provides a wonderfully meditative encounter. Although true with for every work of art, it seems especially important to spend some time with Troy's paintings and photographic work, allowing the eye to absorb his imagery and technique.

Finally, seeing the work in the bedroom by Mark Grotjahn—a talented younger artist who has become more and more important to the collection—is an overwhelming experience. Mark's skill as a painter has never been more present. The range of ideas and techniques in his work continues to fascinate us, and the pieces in this space have a unique dialogue when hung together.

The spaces in this installation, perhaps more than in any other, speak to the power of seeing more than a single piece by an artist and how enriching it can be to have an extended encounter with these works.

As always, I wish you a happy viewing,

Howard Rachofsky
November 2011