We started our weekend with a relaxed, artful morning in Tribeca as we explored The Fight Between Carnival and Lent, the latest exhibition curated by Max Lust at Friedrichs Pontone.

In a focused 15-minute spotlight, gallery co-owner Martin Friedrichs—whose New York space showcases artists from the U.S., Europe, and Korea—introduced Valley of Happy Pigs by Anastasiya Tarasenko, sharing its story, inspiration, and meaning to offer a fresh lens on the full exhibition.

While enjoying the rest of the exhibition with bubbly and pastries, we got to speak with Tarasenko about her process and approach.

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Banner image:

Anastasiya Tarasenko

Valley of Happy Pigs, 2022

Oil paint on copper with a handmade resin border

48 x 36 in

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Event Photos: Jamie Isaacs

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About Friedrichs Pontone

Established in 2022, Friedrichs Pontone is dedicated to showcasing a diverse range of contemporary art,  representing artists from Europe, Korea, and the U.S. . Friedrichs Pontone is led by founders Martin Friedrichs and Domenic Pontone, who bring a combined 40 years international experience to the gallery.

About the Exhibition:

Curated by Max Lust, The Fight Between Carnival and Lent brings together works by eleven artists from five countries, highlighting different backgrounds and disciplines. The exhibition pays homage to Pieter Bruegel the Elder's legendary 1559 painting of the same title, portraying antithetical themes.

About the curator (Max Lust)

Max Lust is a New York-based art professional known for curating exhibitions with themes of identity, rituals, and change. Max is inspired by history and culture, encouraging people to think about human behavior and society. He used to run Lust Gallery in Vienna with his grandfather, Herbert Lust. In his recent series The Fight Between Carnival and Lent, he explores the balance between enjoying life and self-control.