Trihn
Nguyen 
Nguyen
works within a minimalist tradition, reducing his visual vocabulary to
its most formal elements, though working with those elements in a way
in which they create depth and warmth. The exhibition includes two sculpture
series and one painting series.
The first series is based on natural forms, modular parts brought together
to create a more interesting whole. These parts are assembled into graceful,
dynamic forms to create visual rhythms and repetitions that the artist
describes as ‘systems.’ In this work, the juxtaposition of
glass and steel transcends the cold, rigid, intrinsic traits of the materials
to create a symbiotic relationship and a new form.
In the second series, the viewer is invited to see the development of
the artist’s vision from older work in muted colors to new work
in warm colors. These sculptures appear architectonic, but closer examination
reveals a deeper expanse than the forms originally suggest. Early in his
work, Trinh made the most of the juxtaposition of his chosen elements;
in his new work, he pushes their most significant difference – transparency
versus opacity – even further with his use of color.
Nguyen uses warm color, reds and purples, which are more vibrant then
his traditional palette of dark greens and blues to both add contrast
to the work and draw the eye’s attention deeper into the layers
of glass. From the steel-framed architectural pattern, one looks into
the glass and sees echoes of patterns and shapes which are sometimes visible,
sometimes shadows, the remnants of the innovative casting process Nguyen
uses to create the glass.
Although Nguyen began his artistic life as a painter, he found himself
fascinated by glass. Eventually, his interest in using glass’ transparency
led him back to experimenting with painting. Several of his paintings
will be on view; they reflect the same interests he portrays in glass:
organic patterns, modular forms and expressive use of color.
Gold
Topaz Roundle Panels
Cast glass and steel
14 panels
84" x 20" x 2"
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