Nikita Gale, TEMPO RUBATO (STOLEN TIME), 2023–24, modified player piano, audio, LED lighting system. Installation view, Whitney Museum of American Art, New York. From the 2024 Whitney Biennial. Photo: Ron Amstutz

The Whitney Biennial’s $100,000 Bucksbaum Award goes to Nikita Gale for her innovative installation that beautifully merges sound and mechanics.

BY KAZEEM ADELEKE, ARTCENTRON

The Whitney Museum of American Art has awarded the highly esteemed Bucksbaum Award to Nikita Gale, an interdisciplinary artist renowned for her innovative approach to art. This $100,000 award recognizes Gale’s outstanding contributions to contemporary art. Gale was selected from entries in the ongoing Whitney Biennial, titled Even Better Than the Real Thing. This exhibition, running until September 29, features 71 artists, highlighting the diversity and depth of modern artistic expressions.

Gale’s entry into the 2023 Biennial is TEMPO RUBATO (STOLEN TIME) (2023–24). It showcases a modified player piano that silently performs works by various pop musicians. This intriguing piece invites viewers to discuss labor, performance, and the intricate relationship between technology and art. Gale’s ability to weave these themes speaks to her mastery as an artist. But more importantly, it shows her profound understanding of contemporary societal issues.

Nikita Gale: Labor, Performance, and Technology

Gale’s work poignantly examines how structures influence our perceptions of reality. She questions the nature of artistic labor by employing a player piano—a machine traditionally associated with music and performance. Her installation compels audiences to consider who is performing and who is merely observing. With this approach, the artist blurs the lines between artist and audience. Intriguing still is the exploration of automation and authenticity in art. This challenges viewers to think critically about the role of technology in contemporary performance.

The use of sound, or lack thereof, in TEMPO RUBATO is particularly significant. By presenting a piano that silently plays, Gale prompts the audience to confront the absence of sound and the deeper meanings behind musical performance. This strategic choice is a powerful commentary on how we engage with artistic expressions in an age where digital media and rapid technological advancements dominate.

Recognizing Gale’s Impact

The jury for this year’s Bucksbaum Award consisted of distinguished art professionals. It included Whitney Museum director Scott Rothkopf and Biennial co-curators Chrissie Iles and Meg Onli. Rothkopf lauded Gale’s work for its conceptual depth and emotional resonance. He emphasized her ability to balance discipline with an air of mystery, showcasing a nuanced understanding of the materials she employs.

Originally from Alaska, Gale’s work examines the interplay between materials, power, and attention. This recognition from such esteemed professionals highlights her work’s impact beyond the confines of the Biennial. It adds a broader context of contemporary art and its emotional impact. Her installations often blend various elements, including barricades, video, and automated sound and lighting. Together, they question how physical structures shape our sight and sound experiences.

The Legacy of the Bucksbaum Award

The Bucksbaum Award was established in 2000 by the late Melva Bucksbaum. It is a prestigious honor recognizing artists with significant achievements and future potential. Previous winners include prominent figures like Michael Asher, Mark Bradford, and Pope.L. They exemplify the caliber of artists celebrated through this award. The recognition of Nikita Gale places her among this esteemed group, signaling her as a vital voice in contemporary art.

In addition to financial support, the Bucksbaum Award also has other benefits. It amplifies the visibility of the recipient’s work within the art community and beyond. Additionally, it is a springboard for artists to explore new avenues and expand their creative horizons. Above all, it enriches the art landscape.

With the honor of the Bucksbaum Award, Gale will continue her exploration of complex themes through innovative mediums. Her focus on the interplay between materials, power, and attention is likely to evolve, offering fresh insights and perspectives that resonate with audiences. As an artist deeply tuned to the nuances of contemporary culture, Gale’s future projects are anticipated to challenge and inspire.

 A Bright Future for Nikita Gale and Contemporary Art

The recognition of Nikita Gale by the Whitney Museum of American Art through the Bucksbaum Award marks a significant moment in her career and in the broader context of contemporary art. Her work encapsulates a unique blend of conceptual rigor and emotional depth, making her a standout artist in the current art scene. As she continues to innovate and challenge perceptions, the art world eagerly awaits her next moves.