Datebook: July 22, 2010
A documentary that offers rare footage of '80s graffitist and painter Jean-Michel Basquiat, an artist who walks the streets of New York dressed as a phantom, a little-known Cuban watercolorist and a Brooklyn festival that's all about beer. Your guide to what's happening now.
Nate Hill, Mr. Dropout, along Broadway. For the next several months, Hill – an artist known for offering strangers Free Bouncy Rides while dressed as a fish and disposing of people’s mementos as a character called Death Bear – will be conducting a series of “Detachment Walks” along Broadway while dressed head-to-toe in white (complete with face-obscuring mask). During the walks he won’t say much. In fact, he won’t say anything. But you are welcome to follow him around or photograph him or simply enjoy the spectacle that his performance generates. To find out where he’ll be and when, check in with his Twitter feed. And if you happen to see a dude walking around, dressed in a white head-stocking, well, now you know… Starting this week, locations and times vary.
Jean-Michel Basquiat: The Radiant Child, at Film Forum. In 1985, Basquiat sat for a rare, unguarded on-camera interview with filmmaker Tamra Davis. Until the release of this 90-minute documentary at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year, the footage had never been seen. It's a loving profile of the artist, woven into gritty, pre-Olive Garden New York. Through Aug. 3, in Manhattan.
Raúl Martínez, Eagerly Awaiting, at Magnan Metz. This small, gallery show is devoted to a Cuban painter, photographer and graphic artist who is little-known within the United States, but whose imagery is likely familiar, having been displayed on countless posters. In addition to showcasing Martínez’s pop-influenced watercolor depictions of Cuban leaders, such as 19th century nationalist José Martí and 1950s revolutionary Camilo Cienfuegos, the exhibit will also include the artist's lesser-known photographs. Opens today, in Manhattan.
Good Beer, organized by Edible Brooklyn, at the Brooklyn Academy of Music. Because beer is also art: More than a dozen local breweries, along with food purveyors, from Gramercy Tavern to Luke's Lobster, will engage in all manner of culinary and sudsy deliciousness. Tickets are $40. Pack your appetite -- and your liver. Next Wednesday, July 28, in Brooklyn.
