Hoffman Donahue — Attraction in New York

About six months into the pandemic, I took a snapshot of something I was trying to figure out in the studio and sent it to another artist. They replied, “does the world really need more art made of trash?” I eventually abandoned the project. After Balema’s show opened, I recounted the story to another artist well acquainted with the three of us. They immediately responded, “Yes! I think yes. Especially now–in a time like this.”

I can’t be entirely sure what either statement meant. Nor do I understand what Balema intends or means to do with this work. The press release concludes that “the artist’s intention forms patterns into series, arrangements, wall pieces, and descriptive texts. It tries to figure out the thing found on the way somewhere else,” alluding to judicious formal concerns. Nevertheless, I can’t fathom how someone pulls off a show like this, from inception to installation. Despite my inability to comprehend, I [(feel)] that this work is very important. It is the work I wish I had the courage to make and the opportunity to show. TLDR; I am thankful it exists.

The third dimension – Olga Balema at Bridget Donahue November...

Amazing space in what feels like one of the few places left in Manhattan that still feels authentically raw. I saw the Kenneth Tam show here back in March. The curation of that experience was a breath of fresh air. I later found out from a staff member at the ICA in Boston that Bridget Donahue and I both attended the same University (fun little factoid for me at least). Looking forward to visiting this space again...

I like to go here and workout in the room in the back. Sometimes there’s art or sculptures in the way but usually the staff helps me move them so that I can really do my squats. I...