ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Nat Meade Presents 'Franklin' Exhibition at HESSE FLATOW in New York

exhibition · 2026-03-31

Artist Nat Meade has opened a solo exhibition titled 'Franklin' at HESSE FLATOW in New York City. This marks his third individual show with the gallery, featuring paintings and works on paper. The display will remain accessible until April 18, 2026. Meade's artwork delves into the emotional complexities of life, drawing from his personal roles as a father, son, partner, and educator. His figurative pieces depict universal archetypes rather than specific portraits, exploring themes like vulnerability, mortality, and intergenerational relationships. The exhibition reflects on the artist's experiences following his father's death and his reevaluation of parenthood, incorporating elements of hope and renewal. Works such as 'Poise' present ambiguous imagery, like legs dangling from a cloud, prompting reflections on birth and death. References to cultural touchstones, including the 1974 film 'Texas Chainsaw Massacre' and mythological figures like Prometheus, inform the narrative. Younger characters in the show appear more serene, symbolizing potential freedom from familial burdens. Meade's shift from turbulent natural scenes to calmer settings indicates a thematic evolution toward healing and resilience. The presentation is part of a broader series of art events listed, including shows by Molly Bounds, Sophia Huitema, Cinga Samson, Jonas Wood, Danielle Orchard, and Eric White at various galleries.

Key facts

  • Nat Meade's exhibition 'Franklin' is his third solo show at HESSE FLATOW
  • The exhibition includes paintings and works on paper
  • It runs through April 18, 2026
  • Meade explores themes of fatherhood, mortality, and intergenerational dynamics
  • The title references the 1974 horror film 'Texas Chainsaw Massacre'
  • Younger figures in the works symbolize hope and renewal
  • The show reflects on the artist's personal experiences after his father's passing
  • Meade's earlier works often depicted turbulent natural forces, while this exhibition features calmer imagery

Entities

Artists

  • Nat Meade
  • Molly Bounds
  • Sophia Huitema
  • Cinga Samson
  • Jonas Wood
  • Danielle Orchard
  • Eric White
  • Alicia McCarthy
  • Francisco Rodríguez
  • Casey Bolding

Institutions

  • HESSE FLATOW
  • Mrs Gallery
  • Harper’s Apartment
  • White Cube Gallery
  • Gagosian
  • Perrotin
  • GRIMM Gallery
  • V1 Gallery
  • Baert Gallery
  • Karma

Locations

  • New York City
  • Maspeth, NY
  • Beverly Hills
  • Paris
  • Copenhagen
  • Los Angeles

Sources