Susanna Coffey's 2003 Exhibition at Tibor de Nagy Gallery Draws Critical Scrutiny

From October 9 to November 8, 2003, Susanna Coffey presented a solo exhibition at Tibor de Nagy Gallery in New York. The show featured her signature self-portraits alongside smaller flower paintings. Critic Mark Strand contributed a catalogue essay defending the work's conceptual approach. Coffey's paintings consistently center her own face as the primary subject, employing various lighting conditions and costume elements. Some portraits incorporate backgrounds suggesting historical tragedies. The flower pieces measure 5 x 10 inches and were priced at $3,800 each. Strand's text argues the paintings represent the creation of a "painting self" rather than literal likeness. The exhibition received criticism for perceived narcissism and commercial considerations. The gallery is located at 724 Fifth Avenue in Manhattan.