Tromarama's First US Commission at The Kitchen's Temporary Westbeth Space
The Kitchen, a prominent nonprofit art organization in New York, is showcasing "Tromarama: Upon a Machine" at its temporary site in Westbeth during renovations at its Chelsea location. This exhibition, which will be open from April 23 to June 13, 2026, marks the first solo commission in the United States by the Indonesian artist collective Tromarama, consisting of Febie Babyrose, Herbert Hans, and Ruddy Hatumena. The installation, "Upon a Machine" (2026), explores themes of AI technology and the economic boom in East and Southeast Asia following the Cold War. Westbeth, a historic building that previously served as Bell Laboratories, was transformed in the 1960s into affordable artist studios and housing. The exhibition is curated by The Kitchen as part of its ongoing programming.
Key facts
- The Kitchen is presenting 'Tromarama: Upon a Machine' at its temporary space in Westbeth, New York.
- The exhibition runs from April 23 to June 13, 2026.
- Tromarama is an Indonesian artist trio consisting of Febie Babyrose, Herbert Hans, and Ruddy Hatumena.
- This is Tromarama's first US solo commission.
- The installation 'Upon a Machine' (2026) is a sound and video work.
- The work reflects on AI technology and post-Cold War capitalism.
- Westbeth was formerly Bell Laboratories, where 'talkie,' TV broadcast, and binary computer were developed.
- The Kitchen's Chelsea home is undergoing renovation, prompting the temporary move.
Entities
Artists
- Febie Babyrose
- Herbert Hans
- Ruddy Hatumena
Institutions
- The Kitchen
- Bell Laboratories
Locations
- New York
- United States
- Westbeth
- Chelsea