Swiss Institute Exhibition Explores Energy as Political and Social Force Through Historical and Contemporary Art
The Swiss Institute in New York showcases "Energies," an exhibition that delves into the political, ecological, and social aspects of energy using both historical archives and modern art. Among the highlights is a wind turbine from the 11th Street Movement in Manhattan, dating back to 1976, which represents a stand against Con Edison. Featured historical pieces include Ruth Nazario's 1982 painting and watercolors from the 1980s by Becky Howland. Contemporary contributions comprise a battery sculpture by Vibeke Mascini, a solar-powered installation by Haroon Mirza, and a shea butter artwork by Ash Arder. Gordon Matta-Clark's Energy Tree drawings link past utopian ideals to present challenges. The exhibition, running until January 5, 2025, emphasizes the role of Puerto Rican and working-class communities in combating displacement while addressing the adverse effects of green energy.
Key facts
- Exhibition titled Energies at Swiss Institute, New York
- Features historical archive of 1976 wind turbine from Lower East Side
- Includes contemporary works by Vibeke Mascini, Haroon Mirza, Ash Arder
- Shows historical works by Ruth Nazario and Becky Howland
- Exhibition runs through January 5, 2025
- Explores energy as political, ecological and social resource
- References 11th Street Movement's legal battle against Con Edison
- Includes Gordon Matta-Clark's Energy Tree drawings from 1970-75
Entities
Artists
- Ruth Nazario
- Becky Howland
- Vibeke Mascini
- Haroon Mirza
- Ash Arder
- Gordon Matta-Clark
- Agnieszka Kurant
Institutions
- Swiss Institute
- 11th Street Movement
- Con Edison
- ABC No Rio
- CHARAS
- ArtReview
Locations
- New York
- United States
- Lower East Side
- 519 E 11th Street
- World Trade Center