Best of 2018

Given the unsettling character of the art sometimes seen in this space, it made perfect sense to consolidate representative samples on the occasion of Frankenstein’s 200th birthday.  “The subject matter,” wrote Justin Manley, “is heavy, and its combination of fantastical grotesques with artifacts of real-life atrocity requires fortitude and a morbid curiosity.  Determined visitors are rewarded with a show of first-rate artworks assembled with inspired curatorial vision.”  Artists included Alan Rath(whose career retrospectiveopens February 16 at the ICA); Patricia Piccinini (whose current exhibition runs January 26); and Tim Hawkinson.