Monday, February 23, 2009

After the Deluge (2007), by Paul Chojnowski

Chojnowski uses torches to burn his images into existence - sometimes on wood, sometimes paper. Previously an abstract artist, he returned to figurative/representational work out of a desire to honor the historical tradition of art while at the same time pushing the boundaries of how such art was made. I particularly liked how this piece works with the wood grain to simulate the ripples of water... not to mention the depiction OF water through the use of fire.

Paul Chojnowski online

After the Deluge , 2007
Paul Chojnowski
Burned and scorched veneer
60 x 47 1/2 in

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Life Strands, by Hong Chun Zhang

Hong Chun Zhang is a Chinese artist living in America. Much of her work explores the relationship between these national identities. I appreciate how her drawings take on a sculptural presence as they intrude into the room, breaking from the flat surface of the wall.

Hong Chun Zhang

“Life Strands” (2004)
by Hong Chun Zhang
5ft x 30ft
Charcoal on paper