On the corner of Bedford Ave and 5th, a makeshift dolly containing a dozen works of original art caught my eye as I walked to take the L back to Manhattan. Stacked neatly within milk crates and shaded from the 1pm sun by a homemade umbrella, Abby Goodman created a home for her life’s project and passion to be displayed to the world of some odd 20-something year olds, transplants, and summer interns looking to spend money (read more about Goodman’s display decisions on slide 3). Naturally, I raved about how much I adored her art; I ogled and flipped through the wondrous pieces, careful not to bend or leave fingerprints. While flipping through, I chatted with Goodman about her life, inspiration, and future (which seems a lot for a simple chat). 

Goodman earned her BFA from Tyler School of Art, Temple University, in 1995, then studied at the Johnson Atelier Institute of Sculpture from 1997 to 1999 before completing her MFA at Syracuse University in 2002, with a period of study in Australia in 2001 through SU’s International Programs. From here, she showed at exhibitions, prominent galleries, and international venues (more detail on her website). Goodman considers herself more of a sculptor than a painter, especially given her educational background.  

This dolly cart features her “Take Out Series”  which depicts classic New York containers such as bodega coffee cups and Chinese take-out boxes with vivid flowers blooming from their every crevice. She explained to me that the cardstock used in her works is actually more integral to the art piece than the print itself, aligning with her focus on sculpture. Goodman shared that her inspiration for this series was rooted in a period of homesickness. A longing for her New York bodega and the bodega’s cat (see slide 4), loud subway stations, and greasy Chinese take-out drove her to find solace in the “Take Out Series.”

Currently, Goodman’s artwork is side hustle, her day job being that of a packaging designer. But that’s just for now. As for the future, perhaps full time? A feature at the Brooklyn Museum sounds quite nice. Or maybe the MOMA? 

Check out and support Abby Goodman’s art @abby_goodman and online at www.abbygoodman.com