Chelsea Thursdays welcomed an influx of New York’s street art populous on 12 September at the doors of Cheim and Read. The space housed the anticipated reappearance of the elusive Barry McGee, breaking his eight year hiatus from Manhattan’s gallery walls. The artist could be found mingling within crowds, who represented locals and West coast imports curious of the nights happenings. Monikers Twist and Fong were also present amidst the assemblage of panels in addition to ‘the harsh reality’ and ‘down for whatever’, all executed in a rhythmic palette that is boldly McGee’s.
Echoing his Mission roots in San Francisco, this collection of works is a perspective reflecting Barry’s affinity for the street; the findings of lost objects, a counter-consumerism mantra and the narratives of the characters he has encountered. Clustered contributions of drawings synced with patterned formations cohabit Cheim & Reid’s interior, creating an experiential dialogue with the artists work. The exhibition runs through 26 October.
Photography, Kelly Salih
