Among six-figure paintings and monumental sculptures at the New York Armory Show, Tschabalala Self presents a unique installation titled "Bodega Run" that features a giant tower of Goya black-eyed peas among other sculptural works. This installation is a tribute to the iconic New York bodega, a staple that Self, a Harlem native, has been exploring since 2017. The Armory Show took place at 429 11th Avenue, New York from September 5–8, 2024. 

The project includes vibrant silkscreens of candy bars, sodas, and various bodega snacks, alongside cast paper of everyday products like Scott’s toilet paper, Fabuloso cleaner, 7-Up, and Negra Modelo beer. Self's work celebrates these small, family-run corner stores, which are often the only businesses in lower-income neighborhoods.

Self reflects on her childhood experiences, noting that bodegas were some of the first places she could visit alone. They evoke nostalgia and joy for many, symbolizing important community spaces. “There’s so much in Black and brown life that emerges from challenging circumstances but is worth celebrating,” she stated.

The initial version of "Bodega Run" debuted at Pilar Corrias in London in 2017, followed by a presentation at the Hammer Museum in Los Angeles in 2019. Although a book was released earlier this year to conclude the project, Self felt inspired to revisit it, leading to this new installation at the Armory Show.

Collaborating with Two Palms, Self transitioned from print versions of her drawings to three-dimensional works made from cast paper, a medium she became familiar with while assisting artist Leonardo Drew in college. This partnership has allowed her to explore new ideas and create a more immersive experience.

"This is the first installation piece we've shown at the gallery, with everything from the vinyl wallpaper created specifically for this occasion," said Alexandra Slattery, the gallery director. Many works from the installation have already sold, with prices reaching up to $125,000. Self's project raises questions about the hierarchies between commercial spaces: “What’s the difference between the gallery and the corner store? Both are commercial and transactional spaces,” she remarked.

Sayart / Amia Nguyen, amyngwyen13@gmail.com