Big Ideas, Bigger Impact: Cj Hendry’s New York Takeover
In New York City—a metropolis that thrives on ambition and endless reinvention—Australian-born artist CJ Hendry has made her mark with work that’s bold, intricate, and unapologetically immersive. Known for her meticulous, hyperrealistic drawings of luxury items and everyday objects, Hendry’s rise from hobbyist to acclaimed artist is a true New York success story. Through a relentless commitment to detail and an eye for the extravagant, Hendry has captivated a global audience. Her striking, large-scale compositions blur the line between reality and illusion, transforming ordinary objects into visual statements that now grace the homes of collectors and celebrities alike.
Initially, Hendry’s art practice focused on creating large-scale, black-and-white depictions of high-end goods—pieces that reflect New York’s obsession with material culture. Her journey began with simple sketches that quickly caught fire on Instagram, propelling her from relative obscurity to the upper echelons of the art world. Her early works, such as a hyperrealistic drawing of a pair of R.M. Williams boots, have become iconic, while more recent pieces, such as a $100 bill emblazoned with Kanye West’s face (purchased by the pop icon himself), show a playful, satirical edge. Today, Hendry’s works are known for their photorealistic detail and can take up to 200 hours to complete, demanding the patience and precision that has become her hallmark.
But Hendry’s artistic ambitions extend beyond the paper. “Over the years, my hunger to build concepts bigger than a sheet of paper began to develop,” she says, and indeed, her projects have grown bolder with time. In her quest for immersive experiences, Hendry has crafted elaborate installations that combine the razor-sharp detail of her drawings with a touch of the theatrical. From Public Pool, her homage to the kitschy glamour of Vegas hotel pool parties set against the desolate backdrop of the desert, to her collaboration with Phillips auction house, which saw her create bronze crowns reminiscent of beach inflatables, Hendry has tapped into New York’s appetite for larger-than-life art experiences.
For Hendry, New York’s consumer-driven culture has been an endless source of inspiration. “The city’s obsession with consumerism, fashion, and status is everywhere, and that’s had a big impact on the objects I choose to draw,” she reflects. “There’s an iconic nature to everyday things here—a designer bag, a sneaker. They’re not just objects; they’re statements.” This notion is reflected in her choice of subject matter, from high-end fashion items to mundane objects like crayons and tools, each rendered with such precision that they become almost sacred. Her work explores the tension between luxury and the ordinary, serving as a critique of society’s fixation on status and material wealth.
The relentless energy of New York has been both a challenge and a creative spark. “New York is pure chaos, and I thrive off that,” Hendry says. “The city is so fast-paced, it forces you to constantly be on the go, which can feel overwhelming, but it also fuels my creativity.” Despite the frenzy, Hendry finds moments of calm within the chaos, drawing inspiration from Central Park’s quiet paths or a favourite café in SoHo. “New York doesn’t let you slow down, and in a way, that’s what makes it the perfect place for me to create,” she explains. This balance between intensity and serenity is reflected in her work, which combines the meticulousness of her technical skill with the audacity of her larger-than-life ideas.
New York’s art scene, with its blend of established galleries and edgy, underground spaces, has also shaped Hendry’s trajectory. She’s a frequent visitor to the New Museum (although temporarily closed until 2025 as it undergoes an expansion), known for its experimental exhibits, and the galleries of Chelsea, where she finds inspiration in the work of other contemporary artists. But it’s the smaller, lesser-known spaces in the Lower East Side that resonate with her most, where artists push boundaries and showcase work that is raw, daring, and unfiltered. “There’s something special about those off-the-radar spots where artists are just going for it,” she says. “That energy is really inspiring.”
For Hendry, New York’s culture of grand gestures and larger-than-life experiences has fueled her desire to push beyond traditional gallery shows. She’s created immersive exhibitions that invite viewers to interact with the art—such as a Rorschach-themed bouncy house (pictured above) and the Monochrome home (pictured below)—reflecting the city’s love for the bold and experimental. “People here want to be part of the art,” she explains. “They want to touch it, feel it, immerse themselves in it.” New York’s appetite for experiences that challenge and surprise keeps Hendry constantly thinking bigger, always striving to redefine what contemporary art can be.
On a typical day, Hendry finds inspiration across the city’s diverse neighbourhoods. She might start with coffee in SoHo, wandering the art-laden streets while absorbing the vibrant street fashion and architectural details that New York offers in abundance. From there, it’s a stop at the New Museum or a stroll through Chelsea’s galleries, before heading to a hidden Lower East Side gallery for a taste of the city’s grittier side. For a moment of respite, she might retreat to Central Park, letting the contrast between urban life and nature fuel her next project.
The city’s interwoven worlds of art, fashion, and celebrity have also been crucial to Hendry’s success. “Living in New York is a game changer when it comes to connecting with collectors, clients, and partners,” she says. “It’s inspiring to be part of a world where high-profile stakeholders are constantly interacting. There’s always potential for exciting new opportunities.” With her work coveted by collectors and icons alike, Hendry has firmly established herself in a city that values big ideas and boundary-pushing art. Her journey from Brisbane to New York is a testament to the city’s allure, drawing in those who dare to dream, create, and make their mark.
If you’re looking to experience New York through CJ Hendry’s eyes, a day in her company might start with an espresso in a quiet SoHo café, followed by a wander through the galleries of the Lower East Side, and a break in Central Park to recharge. The day would conclude with a rooftop dinner overlooking the Manhattan skyline, reflecting on the art, the city, and the countless stories that New York holds.
With each new project, including the Flower Market images featured here, Hendry transforms familiar objects into striking statements, capturing the energy and audacity of a city that never stops dreaming big. In the ever-evolving New York art scene, CJ Hendry is proof that the city remains a place where ambition and creativity intersect—and where those who dare to push boundaries find a place to call home.
