Robert Zakanitch's 'Hanging Gardens' Exhibition at Nancy Hoffman Gallery Celebrates Beauty

From May 9 to June 15, 2013, the Nancy Hoffman Gallery showcased 'Robert Zakanitch: Hanging Gardens' at 520 West 27th Street in New York City. This exhibition highlighted large gouaches on paper measuring eight by five feet, featuring floral themes such as wisterias and dandelion puffs. As a pioneer of the 1970s Pattern and Decoration movement, Zakanitch employed soft colors and rhythmic designs, drawing inspiration from the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. The artworks included decorative grids and intentionally unfinished lower sections, with paint drips adding depth. John DeFazio’s essay in the catalogue commended Zakanitch for his celebration of beauty. The pieces displayed intricate floral elements, along with small insects and birds, and included smaller gouaches that provided enjoyment from various distances.