Manny Farber's 2004 P.S.1 Exhibition Reveals Evolution from Abstract to Object-Focused Paintings

The exhibition 'About Face' by Manny Farber was showcased at P.S.1 Contemporary Art Center in Long Island City, New York, from September 23, 2004, until January 10, 2005. It highlighted his evolution as an artist, transitioning from 1970s abstract works that incorporated collage and vibrant surfaces to more refined pieces characterized by segmented color fields and an assortment of items such as toys, plants, and tools. Farber's intricate brushwork forms a staccato pattern that encourages viewers to look closely. The backgrounds range from solid to ethereal, featuring skillful handwriting and critiques of the art scene. Notable works include the 1979 piece 'Thinking About History Lessons,' which plays with scale, and the 1989 work 'Lure,' which reinterprets everyday experiences. His later pieces exhibit a simplification in complexity and rich colors, celebrating the essence of domestic life and commonplace objects.