Chen Tianzhuo’s Picnic

Stoned astronauts, neon lights and religious iconography combine in this artist's striking works, on display now in Shanghai

An indolent psychonaut walks onto a stage in a brightly colored outfit and loads his bong with the ritual gestures of a tea master. He puts on a helmet—complete with a weed leaf-shaped halo—and as the bowl burns, a cloud of thick smoke fills the headgear. He sits between two flags, between two philosophical mantras: the Latin motto, “Ordo ab chao” (meaning order from chaos) …

Three Summer Photography Shows

Group exhibitions on both coasts that explore and survey the current state of the medium

As the art season slows down for the summer months and galleries take a breather from the rush of global art fairs, many gallerists take this time to identify and unify themes that reflect some of the concepts being expressed by contemporary artists, and put together group shows. Here are three wonderful shows on both coasts that are surveying the current direction of photography. “The …

Photographer Will Adler’s Tranquil Seascapes

The California lensman's new exhibition captures summer's golden days on the water

As much as barreling behemoth waves and 14-foot airs may be visually captivating and a major part of professional surfing, it’s downright difficult to relate to for most. LA-based photographer Will Adler turns his lens on the ocean and those who take to the waves for pure enjoyment with an accessibility that draws a visceral emotional connection with the viewer. His latest exhibition, now open …