Whitney Biennial 2026: Sculpture of Mute Forms and Withheld Positions

The Whitney Museum of American Art's 2026 Biennial, overseen by curators Marcela Guerrero and Drew Sawyer, has garnered mixed reactions, unlike the boycotts seen in previous iterations. Critics from the left have criticized its ambiguous curatorial approach, which seemingly sidesteps the museum's contentious board that recently shuttered the Independent Study Program. This untitled exhibition spans the fifth and sixth floors, showcasing a significant number of sculptures and installations. A prevalent theme is silent, abandoned animation, with pieces featuring disembodied eyes, limbs, and facial features, alongside human, animal, and plant forms integrated into abstract designs. Notable works include Emilie Louise Gossiau's 'Kong Play' (2025), Zach Blas's 'CULTUS' (2023), Cooper Jacoby's 'Estate' (2024), and Andrea Fraser's 'Untitled (I–V)' (2024). The exhibition is open until August 23, 2026.