Alchemy Of Art And Beauty: Sara Cwynar’s Exhibit with POIRET

For her collaborative project with niche luxury beauty brand POIRET, at Frieze New York, Sara Cwynar showcases a series of artworks that delve into the themes of value and beauty as captured in imagery.

In her macro photographs of peonies, on view now through May 5th, Cwynar arranges the blooms into vivid still-life compositions that echo traditional paintings, encouraging viewers to ponder the ephemeral nature, allure, and delicacy commonly linked to cut flowers.

A striking contrast is presented with an image of 15th-century armor, combined with a collage of numerous women's hands interacting with the static figure by delicately holding everyday objects typically associated with femininity and domesticity. This juxtaposition challenges the conventional image of the stoic male warrior often imagined in the armor.

In her new piece comissioned for Frieze with POIRET, "Encyclopedia Grid (Flowers)," Cwynar explores the construction and dissemination of knowledge. This work features a structured array of vintage floral prints from old books and encyclopedias, with her finger pointing out details in the imagery. Included in this arrangement are three synthetic, AI-generated images, highlighting the artificiality in the reproduction of knowledge.

Echoing the innovative spirit of its namesake, the French designer Paul Poiret, POIRET finds a reflection of its legacy in Cwynar’s work—her art challenges established norms and invites thoughtful examination of the complex interplay between imagery, individual identity, and broader societal constructs.

This project not only reflects the pioneering spirit of POIRET, but also underscores the brand's philosophy of exploring new aesthetic values through art. The presence of POIRET at Frieze New York—complete with a lounge offering interactive experiences and a glimpse into its advanced skincare collection—serves as a testament to the brand's global vision and its seamless integration of luxury beauty with the dynamic world of contemporary art. As visitors engage with both the art and the immersive digital roulette game, they experience the essence of POIRET: a fusion of timeless elegance and modern audacity.