The Jewish Museum opens a dynamic homage to Canadian poet/ songman/ novelist/ cultural icon Leonard Cohen this week, focused on his art, and work from others inspired by his life and oeuvre. Staring up at an image of myself reclined comfortably, I experienced his “Famous Blue Raincoat” with words projected on the walls as well as images inspired by the song. This was Ari Folman’s contribution, “Depression Chamber,” an installation, like a therapy session, that must be experienced one person at a time. I anticipate lines, even with a timed reservation. It is just one piece from artists such as Christophe Chassol and Tacita Dean occupying three floors of the museum. Taryn Simon’s “New York Times, Friday, November 11, 2016,” the newspaper displayed in plexiglass illustrates the timing of Cohen’s death just a few days before our current president’s election to office. There is some symbolism there, especially in the juxtaposition of Obama and Trump’s first meeting, and an advertisement for Bernie Sanders’ book, Our Revolution.

“Halleluliah” can be heard from every corner of the second floor from Daily Tous Les Jours, and nearby is a chorus of Cohen fans performing from Cohen’s album “I’m Your Man.” “Susanne,” “That’s No Way to Say Goodbye,” and many of his most well known songs make the exhibition impossible to leave. You just want to hang out (on comfy beanbag cushions) and listen. Perhaps my favorite is a compilation of interviews where he talks about the craft of poetry.

As with the sumptuous Frida Kahlo exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum, already sold out for weekend viewing for its entire run, this show is a must.

Regina Weinreich

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