ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Dona Nelson's Brutalist Canvases Defy Decoration at Thomas Erben Gallery Through May 13

exhibition · 2026-04-23

Dona Nelson presents new paintings at Thomas Erben Gallery, an exhibition running through May 13. The works are characterized by a rambunctious, street-smart brutalism that actively resists being reduced to mere decorative backdrops. Unexpected nuance emerges within these canvases. David Cohen hosted guests Faye Hirsch, Robert C. Morgan, and Sharmistha Ray for a discussion related to the show. The exhibition highlights Nelson's continued exploration of painterly intensity and formal complexity.

Key facts

  • Dona Nelson is exhibiting new works.
  • The exhibition is at Thomas Erben Gallery.
  • The show runs through May 13.
  • The paintings are described as rambunctious and street-smart brutalist.
  • The works resist reduction to decorative backdrops.
  • Unexpected nuance is found in the canvases.
  • David Cohen hosted a discussion.
  • Guests included Faye Hirsch, Robert C. Morgan, and Sharmistha Ray.

Entities

Artists

  • Dona Nelson
  • David Cohen
  • Faye Hirsch
  • Robert C. Morgan
  • Sharmistha Ray

Institutions

  • Thomas Erben Gallery
  • artcritical

Sources