Why America Hates New York by James Panero

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Mar 26, 2007 12:37 PM

Why America Hates New York

by James Panero

’Forty Days in the Dessert’? The ’Immaculate Confection’? The possible New York Post headlines here are endless (and yes, I know the difference between the Immaculate Conception and the Virgin Birth.) But one thing is clear. From Piss Christ to The Sensation Show, America hates New York for cheap art-world stunts, and for good reason. Check out the following notice that just came over the transom. (Be sure to read down for the bit about how this artist is "best remembered for covering a New York City hotel room in melted cheese." And just what is "anatomically correct" supposed to mean? And why do I feel like this has been done before? And why have I yet to see a custard Mohammed?)

Six Foot Jesus Made Of Chocolate
Cosimo Cavallaro’s Most Anticipated Show At Lab Gallery

NEW YORK (March, 2007) -- World renowned artist Cosimo Cavallaro unveils his latest and most striking installation at the Lab Gallery (at the Roger Smith Hotel, 47th and Lexington avenue) in the early morning hours of April 1st. Cavallaro’s work, entitled “My Sweet Lord” is a 6 foot tall, anatomically correct sculpture of Jesus Christ in milk chocolate.
“I’m truly thrilled to be working with Cosimo again,” says Matt Semler Creative Director of the Lab. “The sign of any great artist is how their work affects the observer. His art always gets a reaction, but this is the most dramatic piece of his career. It is absolutely amazing” The exhibit can be viewed from the street when the velvet curtains of the gallery open from midnight to 1 AM and 6 PM to 7PM (starting April 1st and closing April 7th).
Although Cavallaro has work in permanent collections of museums world-wide, he is best remembered for covering a New York City hotel room in melted cheese (1999). His Jesus is made with over 200 pounds of chocolate, which has been donated by the San Francisco based Theo Chocolate Company (theo as in the obrommin cacao or “Fruit of the Gods”). The confectionary Christ is having its world premier in time for the Easter holiday.
The exhibit is cosponsored by artnet, the respected on-line art gallery and art magazine. It has a supporter of serious artists like Cavallaro since 1995. http://www.artnet.com/
THE LAB (for installation + performance art) is a New York based, converted storefront turned fishbowl producing 30+ fast paced performance art and installation exhibitions annually. Aimed at furious midtown foot traffic, THE LAB’s programming is designed to confront modern relationships between art and audience and seeks to force interaction between high energy, “outropsective” exhibitions and nearly 25,000 daily passersby. It is THE LAB’s goal to reach out through the glass and capture, fascinate, amuse, bemuse, soothe, shake and satisfy any and all who pass within eye or ear shot of the corner of 47th and Lexington. For more information, call 212-339-2092, or email rogersmitharts@rogersmith.com.

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