By Z ASSI
LOCATED IN GHENT, Art Omi is a local (and free) art experience. Indoor exhibits are held in the Newmark Gallery, located in the Benenson Center. The most recent show was “$ELL your $ELF” by PIPPA GARNER which opened on June 24 and just closed on October 29. Much of Garner’s work focuses on the gross underbelly of consumerism and, despite this being her first solo show at 81 years old, her work is accessible and reaches a wide audience through uncommon art mediums such as classified ads and cars.
Garner also does a lot of textile art, specifically iron-on letter t-shirts. Her Art Omi exhibition included multiple t-shirts that tweaked common commercial phrases such as “Nothing exists that wasn’t already there” and “I’m with me.” Most of her shirts are printed with more upsetting, confrontational phrases. Some are still available for purchase in the Benenson Center despite her show having ended.
Although the gallery is currently closed while they mount another installation, it will be open again on November 18, showcasing Dion “TYGAPAW” McKenzie’s work. A techno musician, McKenzie’s show explores the history of the genre, and, on the opening of the exhibit, there will be a live performance. I hope to see you! I know I’ll be there.
Art Omi is at 1405 County Route 22. For information about hours go to artomi.org
