From May 8 to June 27, 2025, David Zwirner Gallery in New York presents “Crucible,” a solo exhibition by Kenyan-British artist Michael Armitage. This show marks the debut of the gallery’s new location at 533 West 19th Street in Chelsea.
This is Armitage’s first solo exhibition with the gallery since their partnership began in 2022. It is also his first solo show in New York since 2019, when his work was featured at MoMA in collaboration with The Studio Museum in Harlem.
The exhibition highlights new paintings and bronze reliefs, many created on Lubugo bark cloth. This traditional Ugandan fabric is often used in funerals and has been a signature material in Armitage’s work for over ten years.

Armitage’s artworks explore themes like migration, identity, and memory. Some paintings reflect real migration routes across the Sahara Desert and Mediterranean Sea. Others deal with broader emotional journeys. His storytelling blends rich visuals with powerful narratives.
As a result, each piece invites viewers into deep, human experiences. The use of vibrant color and raw texture makes his stories even more compelling.
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More information about the artist:
Michael Armitage
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