Nordström uses a broad range of ingredients in his art, including drawings, water colors, paper cut-outs and sheets with words and random markings. The pieces—which can seem intricate and childlike at the same time—depict scenes ranging from a prehistoric hunt to a romantic sleigh ride. And his work wasn’t limited to the walls: it also included an architectural sculpture, around which many in attendance orbited in appreciation, green beer bottles in hand.
Near the entrance, a bookshelf showcased a compendium of the artists’ work titled—in a brilliant stroke of cohesive branding—Who is Sleeping on My Pillow. The book showcases the work of the two artists over the last twenty-plus years, as well as some family photos and poems and essays by Paolo Colombo, Anders Krüger, and Stig Claesson. And the designer of this tribute tome? The couple’s son, Valentin Nordström.
As I was leaving, I saw a man with his young son. He was pointing to one of Andersson’s paintings on the wall, drawing the boy’s previously scattered attentions to it. It was a final reminder on this night that art—both its creation and its appreciation—can bring a family together.
David Zwirner Gallery– 533 West 19th Street
New York, NY 10011
(212) 675-0507
