NADA House 2023

September 1 - October 1, 2023
Governors Island, Nolan Park, House #18, New York, NY

For Nada House 2023, Martha's is excited to be showcasing 4 new paintings by Conner O'Leary. O'Leary's work can best be described as uneasy still lifes or quiet chaos; the paintings typically take place in liminal spaces flooded by light and shadows. The works have a natural conversation with the space in which they will be installed on the island. There are wood floors, windows with light beaming in, and even a hole in the ceiling that directly correlates with the painted cracks that Conner sneaks into his paintings that give the viewer a sense that there is something lurking beyond the surface.

Painting of a white door with a shadow on a brick wall, a beige chair next to the door, and an interior view of a room through an open window.

Conner O'Leary

Magic Hour

30” x 24” framed

Acrylic on canvas stretched over panel

2023

A white plastic chair with metal legs sits on a sidewalk against a yellow brick wall next to a white door. The scene is sunlit, creating distinct shadows on the wall and ground.

Magic Hour detail

Painting depicting a bar scene with sunflowers in foreground, various glassware, and people in the background.

Conner O'Leary

Vision at the Bar

36” x 30”

Acrylic on canvas stretched over panel

2023

Painting of a bar scene with sunflowers in the foreground and patrons at the bar, with reflections and paintings visible, creating a lively atmosphere.

Vision at the Bar detail

Painting of a blue wall with a water bottle, flame, and valve

Conner O'Leary

Lost Again

20” x 16”

Acrylic on canvas stretched over panel

2023

Painting of a water bottle and fire on a blue surface with metal fixture.

Lost Again detail

Framed artwork depicting a wooden door with a silver lock, alongside a broken glass block window with a hole in the center.

Conner O'Leary

Doorway 3

20” x 16”

Acrylic on canvas stretched over panel

2023

Broken glass window and locked door with deadbolt and padlock, depicting an attempted break-in.

Doorway 3 detail