12.26, a contemporary art gallery in Dallas established by siblings Hannah and Hilary Fagadau, welcomes this first season with a solo exhibition of New York City-based artist Cary Leibowitz.
The exhibition is called “The Queen Esther Rodeo” and is inspired by Queen Esther, an iconic post-feminist biblical character known for bravery and intellect. The showing features over 20 new works by Leibowitz as the trademark simultaneous blend of humor, history, and social commentary.
A Tribute to Queen Esther
Using yet another exhibition, Leibowitz, also known as “Candy Ass,” explores identity, power, and resilience. The exhibition is to pay homage to Queen Esther, the Jewish heroine of Purim who saved her people from extermination in ancient Persia. Through a diverse body of works ranging from ceramic platters to paintings on wood and editioned mud flaps, Leibowitz blends history with his trademark wit and self-deprecation.
A Playful Yet Thought-Provoking Installation
Among many striking installations currently on show is a 20-foot inflatable pool with cardboard cutouts of various important personalities: President Barack Obama, Princess Diana, Queen Elizabeth, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg. This funny yet somber piece is a playful comment on Leibowitz’s knack for mixing pop culture with serious issues.
He also enjoys an artistic vocabulary that has gained entry into prestigious institutions such as the Guggenheim Museum, the Whitney Museum of American Art, and the Andy Warhol Museum.
Cary Leibowitz on His Art and Life
In an exclusive interview, Leibowitz shared insights into his inspirations, personal tastes, and artistic process. When asked about the artists he looks to for guidance, he responded, “Survivors and honest people — I also like people with the confidence to do anything.” He admitted to being “impatient and neurotic,” qualities that sometimes slow down his creative process.
Beyond his artistic endeavors, Leibowitz revealed some of his interests. His self-proclaimed guilty pleasure is real estate brochures. He also expressed a deep appreciation for live music, reminiscing about seeing Debbie Harry perform at The Carlyle, describing the experience as “amazing.”
Coffee Table Truths and Cultural Favorites
Leibowitz is an avid reader, claiming to have “about 200 books” on his coffee table anytime. He recently watched JoJo Rabbit in the cinema and eagerly awaits Greta Gerwig’s Little Women. When asked who would portray him in a film, he humorously suggested Bea Arthur but cast his vote for Fran Drescher instead.
Regarding music, Leibowitz keeps his studio silent but enjoys playing CDs in the car, particularly Elaine Stritch Live at Liberty. He admitted feeling a “bit guilty” for not appreciating Stritch while she was alive, adding, “I didn’t know I would be such a fan of hers.” As for exhibitions, his recent favorites include Gainsborough at the National Portrait Gallery in London and Marsden Hartley at the Met Breuer.
A Rising Star With a Unique Artistic Vision
With “The Queen Esther Rodeo,” Leibowitz solidifies his place as one of contemporary art’s most compelling figures. By blending historical narratives with humor and unexpected mediums, he continues to push artistic boundaries. His ability to navigate personal, cultural, and political themes with wit and poignancy ensures that this exhibition at 12.26 will be remembered.
