Joe Fig (BFA 1991 Fine Arts, MFA 2002 Fine Arts) explores cinematic moments that depict infamous artists in times of struggle through his exhibition “Cinematic Paintings.” Fig’s work captures archetypical moments of artists from selected films dating back to 1936, each on intimately sized oil paintings. On view at Cristin Tierney Gallery, 546 West 29 Street, through October 20.

“Construction” by Brian Finke (BFA 1998 Photography) focuses on the daily task of being a construction worker within the context of Manhattan’s building boom and quick collapse beginning in 2008. As opposed to spotlighting the individuals, Finke takes a broader approach to reveal the construction setting as a subset of society and reflection of our time. On view at ClampArt, 521-531 West 25 Street, through October 13.

“Holey Space” by Naoko Ito (MFA 2010 Fine Arts) synthesizes sculpture forms, images, reflective surfaces and audio components to demonstrate the intersection of nature and science. Her work “Counting Dollys” is grounded in her interest in Dolly, the first cloned sheep. In this installation, Ito brings up issues of moral responsibility within technological advancement. On view at SOHO20 Chelsea Gallery, 547 West 27 Street, Suite 301, through September 29.

Shen Wei (MFA 2006 Photography, Video and Related Media) presents a self-portrait project entitled “I Miss You Already,” which examines the process of self-observation and self-discovery. Wei’s work reveals a provocative way to explore his sense of security through understanding the tension between freedom and boundaries. On view at Daniel Cooney Fine Art, 508 – 526 West 26 Street, #9C, through October 27.

Image: Joe Fig, Working (Contemplation): Warhol and Basquiat, 10” x 12” oil on canvas, 2012.