Exploring the notion of artists’ certificates of authenticity over the past 50 years, works in this exhibition range from the most formal legal certificates to dashed-off notations, all of which play a role in defining the parameters of a given art work. Legal and ontological implications are investigated, including the certificate’s ability to embody the artwork itself, while also serving as its referent, deed, legal statement, or fiscal invoice. This international traveling exhibition makes its only New York stop at The Drawing Center.

Curated by Susan Hapgood and Cornelia Lauf, independent curators

Image: Piero Manzoni, Declaration of Authenticity No. 50 (Carte d’authenticité No. 50), 1961. Ink on paper, inscribed and signed, two-sided (front), 11 3/4 x 8 1/4 inches. Courtesy Joanne and Jon Hendricks, New York.