Mucciaccia Galleries Showcases Early Yayoi Kusama Works for their NYC Opening

With galleries in Rome, Singapore, London, and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Mucciacccia Gallery had to bring something unique for the the launch of their first New York space, and they didn’t disappoint. The gallery kicked off with a new Yayoi Kusama show—including some never before seen works—showcasing the growth of her artistry over time. It’s a bold opening, that sets a high watermark, but it also happens to be a timely exhibit with so much interest in Kusama’s latests Infinity Mirror installation just a few doors away. But Mucciaccia wanted to dive deeper than fan (and tourist) favorites. With works dating back to 1950, some of Kusama’s earliest works are on display here, providing a glimpse into the makings of a now-revered artist in a nascent phase of her career. These early paintings show her some of her signatures; her preference for primary colors and her liberal use of polka dots begin in early oil paintings but transition into eclectic works from the ’80s which defy what most people know of Kusama, alongside sculptures from the ’00s that reflect the final result of ideas that began decades ago. Kusama’s work is always enjoyable but Mucciaccia provides a deeper perspective into her journey, marking a welcome addition to the Chelsea gallery scene.

Mucciaccia Gallery is now open at 520 W 24th St, and the Yayoi Kusama exhibit is on view through January 30, 2020

Hi, Konnichiwa (Hello)! Hanako, 2004

Dress, 1996

Hi, Konnichiwa (Hello)! Taka-Chan, 2005

Mushrooms, 2005

A Nest, 1981