Norbert Brunner, “Contemplate the Possible,” digital print on plexi, Swarovski crystals, LEDs, mirror (photo by twi-ny/mdr)
Claire Oliver
513 West 36th St. between Tenth & Eleventh Aves.
Through March 24, free, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
212-929-5949
www.claireoliver.com
Austrian artist Norbert Brunner follows up his 2010 American debut, “Fuck Luck,” with his second show at Claire Oliver, “Smiling Broadly,” a collection of self-actualizations spelled out in Swarovski crystal on mirrors with LED lights. Each mirror features a pair of eyes, and sometimes two, gazing back at the viewer, who can see themselves in the reflection at certain angles. Such phrases as “Visualize the Extraordinary,” “You Are Fantastic,” “Anticipate Greatness,” and “You Are Exceptional” can only be read when standing directly in front of the piece, as if those statements can come true for you only if you are on the right path. The exhibit can’t help but have a Stuart Smalley feel to it, the SNL character played by Al Franken who would look in the mirror and make such daily affirmations as “I’m good enough, I’m smart enough, and doggone it, people like me.” Of course, look what happened to Franken, who is now a U.S. senator. Be sure to head downstairs to see a leftover piece from “Fuck Luck.”