Josephine Meckseper, Somersaulting Dive, 2025 at Magenta Plains.
RESISTANCE AND REIMAGINATION: The seven artists in Resistance and Reimagination have in common an exceptional ability to play with perspective in painting. Looking across the gallery, it’s hard to believe the works were done with human hands, as distorted forms and strange angles give us glimpses into odd little worlds, equally beguiling as they are mind-bending to view. Characters and cartoons appear as stand-ins for narratives addressing ideas of reflection and reinvention. Heady and fun, the exhibition stands out for its choice of artists who have major painting tricks up their sleeves.
→ Visit: Magenta Plains (Chinatown, above) • 149 Canal St • Mon-Fri 11a-6p, through 08/15.
THE GARDEN OF EARTHLY DELIGHTS: A summer exhibition perfectly timed with the season, The Garden of Earthly Delights features a series of unique vantages on the natural world, from the classical to the abstract, the mythical, and the otherworldly. Named for the renowned artwork of the same name painted by Hieronymus Bosch from 1490-1500, GRIMM’s show takes us 500 years forward to showcase present-day depictions of our environment.
→ Visit: GRIMM (Tribeca) • 54 White St • Tue-Sat 11a-6p, through 08/08.
SMALL FORMAT PAINTING: Set within 56 Henry’s corner location on the LES, this exhibition combines a crowd of exciting personalities. Curated by Josh Smith, the well-known artist behind the industry’s favorite Instagram account, and gallerist/notable downtowner Leo Fitzpatrick, Small Format Painting features a list ranging from younger talent to well-established names. Invited artists were given a simple premise — take a 10 x 8 inch canvas, make some art — from which emerged a wide range of results. It’s a summer show at its finest — clever and not overdone. –Maria Vogel
→ Visit: 56 Henry (Lower East Side) • 56 Henry St • Tue-Fri 12-6p, through 08/01.