I revisited Boston (also in June 2025 and July 2025) but this time it was in a different hotel. This was pretty close (easy walking distance) to the Institute of Contemporary Art / Boston or ICA. That was quite convenient since I'd been to their Museum of Fine Art. I will say this museum was a bit disappointing, and I say that only because a few of their rooms were closed for new installations. So, that comment is strickly based on my timing. I would also say, to their credit, they reduced the price of entry - they were well aware of the situation. Regardless, it was a cool building and they were very friendly. Here are some things that caught my eye...
L: Joan Semmel, Green Heart, 1971, oil on canvas
R: John Ahearn, Smokey, 1981, acrylic on plaster
I liked the rawness and low detail in Green Heart. It was also painted in a good year. Smokey is one of three busts - with Elliot and Ciba - and had great detail. These were plaster casts made during a workshop in Ahearn's studio with volunteers. The shirt detail on Ciba was amazing.
L: Marlene Dumas, The Messengers, 1992, oil on canvas
R: Portia Zvavahera, Ndirikumabvisa. 2024, Oil based printing ink and oil bar on linen
The Messengers is actually a four-piece work which can be seen if you click the title above. I thought the child was great...the skeletons are good, too, but probably better if you could talk to the artist. The writeup (also by clicking the title) gives pretty good insight to the skeletons. Ndirikumabvisa was one of several large pieces. There were pieces that got my attention in most of them. However, I thought the feathery blanket and the rudimentary body were well done - and were a great contrast in skill / detail.
The obligatory ticket to prove I was there. A painting in a Starbucks that was certainly picture worthy.
The picture on the right was taken elsewhere a couple weeks earlier.
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