On June 21, “Ugo Rondinone: I ♥ John Giorno” simultaneously debuted at 13 locations in New York City. The multi-part exhibition presents the exceptional life and work from the poet, performer, and political activist, John Giorno. “I ♥ John Giorno” was created by Giorno’s husband, Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone.
The summer solstice and the artists 80th birthday coincide with the presentation. Opening receptions were held across institutions in New York, such as: Howl! Happening, The Kitchen, Hunter College Art Galleries, Red Bull Arts New York, Sky Art, Swiss Institute, White Columns, and 80WSE Gallery. In the evening, an after party was held at PUBLIC, where guests were able to enjoy music by Matthew Higgs. The location was special because Giorno’s 222 Bowery loft was just around the corner, where he resided for over 50 years.
Press Conference For “Ugo Rondinone: I ♥ John Giorno” at Sky ArtPhoto by Shaugn & John/Freedom Agency
Special guests included Michael Stipe, Richard Bosman, Phong Bui, Angela Bulloch, Anne Collier, Matthew Higgs, Billy Sullivan, Joan Wallace, Freema Agyeman, Roberta Amon, Victoria Bartlett, Stanley Buchthal, Felix Burrichter, and many more.
Partners of the exhibition include Harry Burke, Jay Sanders & Jamie Stevens (Artists Space), Simon Castets (Swiss Institute), Michael & Nicolai Frahm (Sky Art), Jane Friedman (Howl! Happening), Lisa Phillips (New Museum), Tim Griffin (The Kitchen), Matthew Higgs (White Columns), Risha Lee (Rubin Museum of Art), Sarah Watson (Hunter College Art Galleries), Max Wolf (Red Bull Arts New York).
Press Conference For “Ugo Rondinone: I ♥ John Giorno” at Sky ArtPhoto by Shaugn & John/Freedom Agency
John Giorno at the press conference For “Ugo Rondinone: I ♥ John Giorno” at Sky ArtPhoto by Shaugn & John/Freedom Agency
