As the art world converges on Miami Beach for the annual Art Basel, David Zwirner Gallery stands poised to captivate audiences with a stunning showcase of contemporary and modern art. This year’s presentation promises a rich tapestry of works from both emerging talents and established masters, offering a glimpse into the cutting edge of the art world.
At the forefront of Zwirner’s booth are three new sculptures by Andra Ursuţa, continuing her exploration of cast-glass forms. “Void Fill Carboy” (2024), “Canopic Jerrycan” (2024), and “Canopic Demijohn” (2024) build upon the artist’s critically acclaimed series first unveiled at the 58th Venice Biennale. Ursuţa’s work challenges perceptions, transforming everyday objects into haunting vessels that serve as metaphorical stand-ins for the human form.
Fresh from her solo exhibition at Kyoto’s historic Ryosokuin Temple, Elizabeth Peyton brings a selection of new paintings to Miami. Her intimate portraits of American music icons like Kurt Cobain, Bob Dylan, and Elvis Presley offer a poignant reflection on celebrity, youth, and the enduring power of musical legacy.
Lisa Yuskavage’s latest works, including the mesmerizing “Peacock Infestation in the Garret” (2024) and “Tea and Cigarettes” (2024), showcase her mastery of color and narrative. These paintings transform studio spaces into theatrical stages, weaving complex stories that blur the lines between past and present, reality and fantasy.
A carefully curated selection of Alice Neel’s portraits, spanning from the 1940s to 1983, offers a compelling glimpse into the artist’s world. These works not only capture the essence of her subjects—fellow artists, writers, and contemporaries—but also serve as a vivid chronicle of the times in which she lived.
The booth features several paintings by Noah Davis, including the intriguing “Man with Alien and Shotgun” (2008). Davis’s work seamlessly blends everyday scenes with surreal elements, creating a unique visual language that continues to influence contemporary painting.
Art enthusiasts will delight in the presence of key works by abstract masters. Robert Ryman’s pieces, spanning from the 1960s to early 2000s, explore the physical properties of paint itself. Ad Reinhardt’s “Abstract Painting, Red” (1953) invites viewers into a meditative exploration of color and form. Wolfgang Tillmans’s “Freischwimmer 233” (2021) pushes the boundaries between photography and painting, creating ethereal abstractions through darkroom manipulation.
The Zwirner booth also showcases works by an impressive roster of artists, including Yayoi Kusama’s iconic polka-dotted pumpkin sculpture, Raymond Pettibon’s evocative works on paper, and Katherine Bernhardt’s vibrant, pop culture-infused paintings.
In an exciting collaboration beyond the booth, Katherine Bernhardt debuts a series of limited-edition rugs designed in partnership with Memphis Milano. These hand-knotted pieces, featuring Bernhardt’s signature motifs alongside Memphis’s iconic 1980s aesthetic, will be on display at a special pop-up exhibition in the Miami Design District.
As Art Basel Miami Beach 2024 approaches, David Zwirner’s presentation stands out as a must-see destination, offering a comprehensive view of the contemporary art landscape. From emerging voices to established legends, the gallery’s curation promises to inspire, challenge, and delight art lovers from around the globe. Visitors to the fair will find themselves immersed in a world where the boundaries of art are constantly pushed, redefined, and celebrated, all under the expert guidance of one of the art world’s most influential galleries.
