On view through October 26 at Gordon Robichaux is a solo exhibition showcasing a body of previously unseen work by Agosto Machado, the remarkable self-taught Chinese-Spanish-Filipino-American performance artist, activist, archivist and multi-media visual artist.
A prominent figure in Downtown Manhattan’s political and cultural scene, including the 1969 Stonewall Uprising, Agosto Machado is revered not only for his distinct talents, but for the support, compassion and care he offered others, particularly when AIDS was devastating his community. While visiting the exhibition, I had the opportunity to meet the touchingly tender artist, and hear first-hand the stories behind his works that are now on exhibit at Gordon Robichaux.
The beguiling altar featured above, “Arch,” — a tribute to the strikingly inventive artist Arch Connelly — was fashioned this year with pin-back buttons, silk scarf, black and white photocopy, plexiglass, l-brackets with original artwork by Arch Connelly Several more images captured from the exhibition follow:
“Anna May Wong,” 2025, Altar dedicated to the pioneering Chinese American film star with varied media including textiles, costume jewelry, human hair, Mahjong tiles, Chinese embroidered shoes, a plastic pagoda, postcards and photographs
“Untitled (Mask)” 1972/3, Plaster gauze, acrylic paint, elastic cord — worn by the artist while performing in the 1970’s
“Peter and David,” 2025, Altar with varied media including costume jewels, plastic skull, carved revolving metal tray, New York subway token, Machado’s laminated memorial card for photographer Peter Hujar, dried flower petals, matchbook, bracelet, metal Eiffel Tower given to Machado by the late multidisciplinary artist David Wojnarowic and original artwork by Thomas Lanigan-Schmidt
“Marsha,” 2025, Altar honoring the trailblazing gay liberation activist Marsha Johnson with varied media including: costume jewelry, glass objects, artist’s teeth, keys, a plastic Buddha, textile, crystal, Fai Chun decorations and original artwork by Rick Shupper
The artist with his self-portrait: “Untitled,” 1965., Acrylic on paper
Agosto Machado‘s solo exhibition can be viewed through October 26 at Gordon Robichaux. Located at 41 Union Square West, the gallery is open Friday-Sunday 12-6pm and by appointment (646-678-5532).
Photos of artworks: Lois Stavsky
