Reviewed by Jill Conner
at Project:ARTspace, New York City
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When Shape/Shifters opened on January 7, 2020 at Project:ARTspace in Manhattan, no one was remotely ready for something as dramatic as the Covid-19 pandemic, despite the reports that had been circulating out of China. The opening reception was packed and stood as a strong validation of Cords’ new Jacquard tapestries, which simultaneously embraced and reflected the fast-paced nature of New York City. Even though this curatorial collaboration between myself and the artist closed on February 20, 2020, the unexpected shutdown that occurred nearly two weeks later, ceased all potential conversations about this innovative project. The walkable city had been brought to an abrupt halt, and the regular conduits of communication were distorted. And yet, despite the new era of lockdowns and self-quarantine, her work remains key to an objective, city-based adaptation.