Lisa Yuskavage and Kara Walker exhibitions on West 22nd Street present contrasting approaches to postmodern ambiguity

Two solo exhibitions opened simultaneously on West 22nd Street in New York. Lisa Yuskavage presented new paintings at Marianne Boesky Gallery through June 27, 2003, located at 535 West 22nd Street. Kara Walker displayed drawings at Brent Sikkema Gallery through July 25, 2003, at 530 West 22nd Street. Both artists explore postmodern themes through different methods. Walker's work examines the legacy of slavery using silhouette cut-outs and graphic drawings that reference historical art while confronting racist stereotypes. Her techniques include smudged brass-rubbing reminiscent of Larry Rivers and mannerist figuration recalling Paul Wunderlich and Pierre Klossowski. Yuskavage's paintings feature exaggerated female figures with what critics describe as technical limitations, shifting from vintage Penthouse imagery to live models. Her work shows influences from Wayne Thiebaud in pieces like "Couch" (2003) but lacks painterly depth in others like "Groom" (2003). The exhibitions prompted critical discussion about artistic technique versus conceptual engagement in contemporary painting.