“Hughmans,” Hugh Hayden
If you know me, you know I’m all in for shows that leave you pondering way more questions than when you walked in. That’s exactly what hit me at “Hughmans,” Hugh Hayden’s latest exhibition at the Lisson Gallery. Now, this gallery has two spots in New York right next to each other, but it’s art the smaller one where the magic happens—IMHO, more often than not, it's where the really captivating shows unfold.
If you haven’t yet dived into the world of Hugh Hayden, you’re in for a wild ride. This Dallas-born artist, who also happens to be a Cornell-trained architect, has a knack for creating sculptures that'll make you stop and stare—and think, too. From using Christmas tree wood to tossed-out furniture, Hayden isn’t just playing around; he’s delving deep into issues like race, social dynamics, and our interactions with the environment.
Now, about Hughmans—picture this: an installation show where sculptural works are tucked away behind closed doors. The setup? A maze of metal bathroom stalls, each guarding a singular work of art. It’s like a treasure hunt where you're flipping open doors to secrets, not knowing what’s inside each one. The installation rethinks the humble bathroom stall to unravel themes of intimacy, desire, and more, viewing these universal experiences through the lens of collective human encounters. The images accompanying the text are two of the sculptures in the show. You can also take a look at social media reel, which gives you an idea of the experience.
In Hughmans, you’ll find that Hayden stays true to his beloved medium of wood, while also weaving in touches of bronze, resin, and silicone. Among the hidden gems are two wooden Pinocchio sculptures, Ebanocchio and Nocecchio, crafted from ebony and walnut, respectively. These pieces brilliantly toy with themes of transformation and identity—echoing the journey of their fairytale namesake towards becoming 'real.'
I totally loved this show. If you’re around New York and looking for an art experience that’s unlike any other, make sure to drop by.