In a poignant tribute to the renowned art historian Meyer Schapiro, Phong Bui has curated an exhibition that not only celebrates their long-standing friendship but also sheds light on the pivotal role Schapiro played in shaping the American art world. The show, "Singing in Unison: Part 13," is an extensive ensemble of works by prominent artists who, like Bui and Schapiro, were influenced by his groundbreaking ideas.
Bui's personal connection with Schapiro dates back to their first meeting in 1986, which marked the beginning of a profound friendship that transcended borders and disciplines. As a writer, curator, and critic, Bui has always sought to bridge the gaps between art and history, politics, psychology, sociology, and social criticism – all areas where Schapiro's expertise excelled.
The exhibition showcases an impressive array of works by artists such as Philip Guston, Arshile Gorky, Mark Rothko, and Hans Hofmann, among others. These masterpieces not only attest to Schapiro's remarkable reach in the New York art world but also demonstrate Bui's unwavering commitment to fostering a community of like-minded individuals.
At its core, "Singing in Unison: Part 13" is an ode to the power of collaboration and the enduring legacy of Schapiro's intellectual curiosity. For Bui, this exhibition serves as a testament to his love for his mentor and friend, while also paying homage to their shared aspiration – to create art that not only reflects the world around us but also inspires us to build a better one.
Throughout the show, Bui's own artwork and writings are woven throughout, including "Shrine to Meyer," which serves as a poignant tribute to Schapiro's enduring influence on his life and work. This large-scale mirror installation is accompanied by works collected from Schapiro's own collection, which he gifted to Bui over the years.
The exhibition is more than just an artistic tribute; it is also a reflection of Bui's profound understanding of the complexities of art and its relationship with society. His mantra – "Artists need to create on the same scale that society has the capacity to destroy" – underscores the urgent need for artists to engage with the world around them, addressing issues such as assimilation, cultural identity, and social justice.
As the show concludes its run at the Brattleboro Museum & Art Center through February 15th, 2026, it is clear that "Singing in Unison: Part 13" will remain an indelible mark on the art world – a testament to the transformative power of Schapiro's ideas and Bui's unwavering dedication to their legacy.
Bui's personal connection with Schapiro dates back to their first meeting in 1986, which marked the beginning of a profound friendship that transcended borders and disciplines. As a writer, curator, and critic, Bui has always sought to bridge the gaps between art and history, politics, psychology, sociology, and social criticism – all areas where Schapiro's expertise excelled.
The exhibition showcases an impressive array of works by artists such as Philip Guston, Arshile Gorky, Mark Rothko, and Hans Hofmann, among others. These masterpieces not only attest to Schapiro's remarkable reach in the New York art world but also demonstrate Bui's unwavering commitment to fostering a community of like-minded individuals.
At its core, "Singing in Unison: Part 13" is an ode to the power of collaboration and the enduring legacy of Schapiro's intellectual curiosity. For Bui, this exhibition serves as a testament to his love for his mentor and friend, while also paying homage to their shared aspiration – to create art that not only reflects the world around us but also inspires us to build a better one.
Throughout the show, Bui's own artwork and writings are woven throughout, including "Shrine to Meyer," which serves as a poignant tribute to Schapiro's enduring influence on his life and work. This large-scale mirror installation is accompanied by works collected from Schapiro's own collection, which he gifted to Bui over the years.
The exhibition is more than just an artistic tribute; it is also a reflection of Bui's profound understanding of the complexities of art and its relationship with society. His mantra – "Artists need to create on the same scale that society has the capacity to destroy" – underscores the urgent need for artists to engage with the world around them, addressing issues such as assimilation, cultural identity, and social justice.
As the show concludes its run at the Brattleboro Museum & Art Center through February 15th, 2026, it is clear that "Singing in Unison: Part 13" will remain an indelible mark on the art world – a testament to the transformative power of Schapiro's ideas and Bui's unwavering dedication to their legacy.
The latest update from the WHO says there have been over 100,000 reported cases of polio in Afghanistan this year alone 
. And it's not looking good for the global vaccination efforts either... 
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, it's really about how his work can bring people together. I love that Phong Bui is sharing his own art and writings alongside all the famous artists, it shows he's not afraid to show off his own skills 
. The idea of artists having to address the same scale as society's destructive tendencies feels so relevant today 
. I'm definitely checking out this exhibition when it comes around 
. The mirror installation sounds stunning too 
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I mean, don't get me wrong, it's nice that Phong Bui wants to honor Meyer Schapiro's memory and all, but can't he just promote some new artists instead? Like, what's the point of showcasing works by famous artists from decades ago? It's not like we're going to learn something new or gain any insight into contemporary art 
, its like phong bui is trying to tell us somethin about schapiro's influence on american art world... i think its like he's sayin we need more collaboration between artists & historians cuz thats where the real magic happens 
, but what really got me is how phong bui's own artwork is woven throughout the show 
. I think it's so cool that they're featuring works by all these amazing artists who were influenced by Schapiro's ideas... like, Philip Guston & Mark Rothko are total geniuses 
, but have you guys seen that new Netflix series with the actor who plays a guy who travels through time? I mean, it's pretty cool, but also kinda weird 
. Anyway, back to art – I was just looking at this exhibit about Meyer Schapiro and I'm like, what even is a curator? They're like, artists too, but also not artists... 
. It's like, you can really feel the connection between them through their art and Bui's curation is just top-notch 
. The fact that he's woven his own artwork and writings throughout the show is so cool 
. I'm defo checking it out when it comes to Brattleboro Museum & Art Center in 2026 
. It's like, a beautiful tribute to Schapiro's legacy and the power of collaboration 
I mean, I've seen some of his work online, but I don't know that much about him. Is he like a superhero for art or something? 
this exhibition is more than just a tribute, its like a time capsule of the 80s & 90s art scene 
- it feels like u r walking into a history book, but in a really cool way 
the fact that Phong Bui got to share his own work & writings alongside Schapiro's collection is just genius 
. it's not just about celebrating Meyer Schapiro's life and work, but also about the connections we make with others that inspire us to create something meaningful 
. phong bui has done an incredible job of curating this show and sharing his love for schapiro's ideas with the world 
. Overall, I think "Singing in Unison: Part 13" is a testament to the power of collaboration and intellectual curiosity 
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. It feels like a love letter to Schapiro's legacy 
. The way he highlights social justice & cultural identity issues is so relevant today 
. I'd go see this exhibition ASAP, it's not just about art history, it's about what we can learn from collaboration & pushing boundaries 
. It's like he's saying, 'Hey, we need more people talking about these issues in art!' 
. His work is so expressive and raw! It's like he's speaking directly to your soul.