‘Selective Consciousness’ reshapes reality- new technique, exhibition

Artists, no matter what their medium, would like their work to stand out from all others. A ceramic artist would like to develop distinctive forms and unique glaze combinations. A photographer may wish to experiment with depth-of-field and other blurring techniques to produce imagery that is unlike any other photo. Painters search and search for not only unique or unusual subject matter but also for color applications and compositions that may kick their work into another level of creativity.

One such artist has given us a unique approach to subject matter and very interesting use of space, along with unusual painting techniques. Jong Un Choi’s recent series “Selective Consciousness” is currently on exhibit at Janie Peters’ Art of Framing through June.

The artist’s statement gives insight into this exceptional work. “In my Selective Consciousness series, space consists of binary parts: the reflected image realistically depicted, and the surrounding space of the reflected image shown in solid color. The consciousness of reflected surfaces represents my own engagement in the urban vistas where I currently live and work. The physically reflected imagery indicates engagement of a specific perspective as I gaze, and therefore embodies illusion and internal perception.”

The artist has presented us with the reality of the reflective surface taken completely out of context. In our three-dimensional world we can observe a reflection in a window and then change our angle of sight and observe the source of that reflection. In the two-dimensional world of the painted image, the reflection becomes the reality. There is nothing for the viewer to compare it to. It stands alone in shape and color.

Jong Un Choi’s painted reflections have been rendered in a photo realistic manner. At first glance one would think that the artist has used a razor knife to cut out geometric shapes from color photographs. Upon closer inspection one sees the masterful painting technique that has been employed. These glossy surfaced geometrically shaped reflections are surround by a flat neutral color field that enhances the artist’s use of perspective as well as intensifying the vivid reflections.

“Selective Consciousness” is a must see for art lovers and their entire family. This distinctive exhibit will reward viewers with, as I mentioned above, not only unique or unusual subject matter but also unfamiliar color applications and compositions.

Shafer provides insight about art exhibits in Greater Lafayette. Email him at orieshafer@hotmail.com

If you go

Work by Jong Un Choi

When: Through June 30

Where: Art of Framing, 2505 S. Earl Avenue, Lafayette

Contact:http://www.artofframinginc.com/ or 765-448-1821

Hours: Monday-Thursday 8-6, Friday 8-5, Saturday 8-1