David Hammons' Plastic Paintings at L&M Arts

David Hammons' 2011 exhibition at L&M Arts in New York featured works that appeared to be paintings but were actually plastic sheets draped over traditional supports. The show included plastic screens, perforated and torn sheets, and painted frames visible only through holes or at edges. Hammons' use of plastic referenced Alberto Burri's plastic works from the 1960s, whom Hammons visited in his studio in Città di Castello during the 1990s. The exhibition raised questions about influence and originality, echoing Harold Bloom's 'anxiety of influence.' Hammons' approach contrasted with strategies of artists like Sherrie Levine and George Condo, who deconstruct or parody old masters. Chris Ofili, in a Yale lecture, cited David Hammons' 1983 street performance 'Bliz-aard Ball Sale' as an inspiration, showing how influence can be acknowledged without imitation. Hammons' debt to Burri was evident but transformed into something unique.