Stanya Kahn’s videos offer glimpses into alternate worlds populated by bizarre characters, mummified animals, natural forces, and primal impulses. Happy Song for You (2011), made with legendary artist Llyn Foulkes, demonstrates Kahn’s unique approach to storytelling in which humor and absurdity function as central forces. Featuring an original song written and performed by Foulkes, the video is set to a carefully crafted soundtrack, a signature element of Kahn’s work. Happy Song for You will be exhibited alongside a selection of ink-on-paper drawings that extend Kahn’s comedic writing into the graphic practice of cartooning.

This presentation is organized by Jenny Moore, Assistant Curator, and is part of the Museum’s ‘Stowaways’ series—a constellation of episodic projects and spontaneous interventions in spaces throughout the New Museum.