Artist Ulli Gruber launches new work at Sunny’s Bar

For a photoshoot of the bassist Dave Holland, the artist Ulli Gruber was unexpectedly sent a private car from a production company. Feeling lucky for the car in lieu of a bus all the way to Woodstock, Gruber took advantage of the private drive and immaculate fall day to take photos throughout her two hour trip as the sun was rising.

The result is “window (e)motion,” a fun, visually playful celebration of the road.

“I love travelling” Gruber said, “by plane or bus or subway. Anywhere where you give up your power to drive. It’s like being in a baby carriage. Whatever happens, happens.”

Gruber has lived in the Bronx for the past two years, but had lived in Red Hook for 18 years when she moved from Austria in 1997. She said she could work day and night and couldn’t afford current Red Hook prices, but remains thankful for the neighborhood that so thoroughly formed her upon arrival.

“This feels like a homecoming,” Gruber said of the upcoming exhibit at Sunny’s Bar.

All the images come from a single trip to Woodstock, and the photos show the kind of euphoria and morning curiosity Gruber had in those early hours. “I felt inspired,” Gruber said. “I wanted to capture the mind that travels while we travel.”

You get that here with overlain images, curves that are variously resolute and blurry. Perhaps inspired by the propulsive inspiration of Holland, Gruber’s images have a quick, flick of the wrist quality.

“I like when things are out of focus. They suggest an internal world. They hint at what we’re missing right now. We don’t have to record everything perfectly.”

Gruber said the fun-loving vibe of Sunny’s is the perfect spot for these photos (we couldn’t agree more).

“I hope people respond,” Gruber said. “I hope it makes them want to take a bus anywhere and enjoy the ride.”

window (e)motion
Sunny’s Bar
Launch party July 27, 6 pm – 8 pm