For anyone that may be in doubt, the current “Real/Surreal” exhibit at the Whitney Museum of American Art is part of an ongoing two-year project to remind visitors of all the hidden gems at the institution’s disposal, casting pieces from the museum’s permanent collection in a new light, placing them in novel contexts and company. “Real/Surreal” seeks to illuminate the co-existing intersections and tensions between Realism and Surrealism, both of which flourished in American art in the twenties, thirties, and forties. The result is absolutely mesmerizing. Wander through the collection, mounted against walls painted in rich colors and expertly installed by curator Carter Foster, and get lost in the alternately haunting, bizarre, quirky and always inventive works. Popular classics like Man Ray’s “La Fortune” and Edward Hopper’s “Early Sunday Morning” merit re-visiting in their fresh placement alongside lesser known but equally captivating, and complementary, pieces. This must-see exhibition can be enjoyed through February 12th, and is a crowd-pleaser even for the less art world-inclined. CassaStyle Tip: Visit the Whitney Fridays 6-8pm and take advantage of pay-as-you wish admission!