Full Breakdown
Exploring "Hard Copy New York": A Photocopy Art Exhibition
3/6/2026, 8:45:52 PM
Exhibition Overview
“Hard Copy New York,” currently on display at the International Center of Photography until May 4, showcases a unique collection of artworks created using photocopy machines. The exhibition features a range of styles and subjects, presenting images that evoke a sense of immediacy akin to posters found on city streets. The works, while reminiscent of older photocopy aesthetics, are not nostalgic; they instead convey a contemporary relevance.
Featured Artists and Works
The exhibition includes contributions from notable photographers such as Stephen Shore, Ryan McGinley, Thomas Ruff, Zoë Ghertner, and Takashi Homma. Stephen Shore presents ninety-three grainy photocopies of his photographs from Andy Warhol’s Factory, featuring iconic figures like Andy Warhol, Nico, Edie Sedgwick, and Lou Reed. These images, originally published in the catalogue for Warhol’s 1968 exhibition at Moderna Museet in Stockholm, capture moments of casual interaction among these cultural icons.
John Divola’s series “Dogs Chasing My Car in the Desert” features large-scale images of dogs running, presented in nine-panel compositions that create a dynamic visual experience. Meanwhile, Daniel Arnold’s street photography, characterized by a chaotic and humorous edge, includes a striking central image of a woman sprinting down the sidewalk, surrounded by fragmented visuals that reflect the disorder of urban life.
Curatorial Approach
Curated by Aaron Stern in collaboration with David Campany, the exhibition emphasizes a high level of collaboration and reinterpretation of the artists' original works. While most artists provided files for the photocopies, Ari Marcopoulos uniquely created his own prints, showcasing portraits and text pieces that highlight his mastery of the photocopy medium.
Noteworthy Contributions
Gray Sorrenti’s installation stands out with its extensive display of FaceTime captures, creating a collage of images that invites viewers to engage with the concept of connection in the digital age. Sorrenti’s work is described as “my heart,” reflecting a personal and open expression. Additionally, Jerry Hsu’s impactful enlargement of a man’s hand, raised in a warning gesture with blood collecting at the base of two fingers, evokes a cinematic tension reminiscent of Luis Buñuel’s films.
Conclusion
“Hard Copy New York” challenges traditional notions of photography and art through its innovative use of photocopy technology. The exhibition not only showcases the talents of contemporary artists but also invites reflection on the nature of image-making in a digital world. As the show continues, it serves as a testament to the evolving landscape of artistic expression.