One of the coolest things about the art galleries in our area is that they present exhibitions that rival museum shows from around the world.  While there are many gallery shows worth seeing right now, I want to share one of particular importance to me:  JOHN O’CONNOR:
 The Machine and the Ghost at Pierogi Gallery in Williamsburg until November, 10th.

Four years ago when I was beginning my art-collecting journey, I stumbled into Pierogi and was blown away by John’s work.  I don’t believe there is another artist in the world doing what John does (a bold statement but you have to see for yourself).  His intricate, obsessive drawings, mostly large and colorful are all completely done with graphite pencil… some are 7’x10’ large!  That’s one part of it.  The other part is the madness in the subject matter: John takes observations from the world we live in and translates them to art forms that both provoke thought and laughter. Check out this mad piece.

I have spent a lot of time personally getting to know John and his family.  His work appears in MOMA, the Whitney and many other museums.  Having said that, there is not a more down to earth guy in the world and I am thankful that people like John bless us with their genius.  Go out and see this!  Make it a Sunday in Brooklyn.  Check out the Brooklyn Museum while you are there.  You will thank me and you may even make a life changing decision and buy a John O’Connor drawing.

P.S.: Englewood is featuring a gallery walk this weekend, October 17-19th.  I will be presenting a curator discussion here at One River about the current “Two River” exhibitionat 7PM on Thursday and 1PM & 3PM on Saturday.  We are showing five of the most compelling emerging female artists from Brooklyn. Register HERE.

Monday, October 14, 2013