The Pleasure Pavilion: A Series of Installations

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Pipilotti Rist: Sept 17 – Oct 3

Philip Taaffe: Oct 8 – 24

Jason Moran: Oct 29 – Nov 14

Zarina: Nov 19 – Dec 5

Tomm El-Saieh: Dec 10 – Jan 16

Ragnar Kjartansson: Jan 21 – Feb 27

Salman Toor: Mar 4 – Apr 10

Rachel Whiteread: Apr 15 – May 22

Charles Atlas: Jun 10 – Jul 16

"[Pleasure] Pavilions [were] erected in the walled gardens within Hindu palace complexes, or outside, in nearby resorts where rulers and their entourages made pleasurable excursions. Pavilions in gardens and resorts offered opportunities to admire the geometric arrangements of water channels, pools and planted plots, or the refreshing expanses of artificial lakes. Here, too, rulers might enjoy the company of companions as well as musical entertainments."

—George Michell, architectural historian specializing in ancient Indian architecture, “A Mughal-Style Pleasure Pavilion from a Hindu Palace or Garden Resort"

Luhring Augustine is pleased to present The Pleasure Pavilion, a series of installations that brings together artists from the gallery program in dialogue with the façade of a 19th century Indian pleasure pavilion. The arcaded portico pavilion, most likely part of an Indian palace or resort, was believed to have been originally used for recreational activities, such as enjoying musical and dance performances, entertaining guests, or admiring the surrounding gardens. The sandstone and brick architectural details on the structure, including the carved delicate floral motifs and circular columns with fluted, tapered shafts, are that of the Mughal-type and reflect a synthesis of international styles and techniques.

Over the course of the exhibition, in a succession of three-week-long installations, seven Luhring Augustine artists will be paired with the front façade of the pavilion. Inviting conversations ranging from concept and intent, form and function, to many others, the juxtapositions will simultaneously illuminate the contemporary aspects of the pavilion and the timeless interests of the contemporary artists.