The October Gallery presents a nuanced exploration of artistic practice through its upcoming exhibition, Transvangarde: Luminous Matter. Curated to showcase the work of seven artists from diverse eastern backgrounds, the exhibition delves into the intricate relationships between cultural experience, philosophical perspective, and artistic expression.
At the heart of the exhibition, Chinese artist Xu Zhongmin’s work exemplifies the show’s thematic depth. His recent Egg Series challenges viewers’ perceptions through dynamic sculptures that radiate an enigmatic luminescence. Zhongmin’s pieces probe profound philosophical questions about time, life cycles, and the individual’s place within humanity.
Kenji Yoshida contributes ethereal paintings crafted from gold, silver, and precious metals, bridging traditional Japanese appliqué with modernist abstraction. His artistic journey, which began with a move to Paris in 1964, reflects a dialogue with Abstract Expressionists like Rothko, seeking transcendent spirituality through visual language.
The exhibition further explores cultural intersections through Tian Wei’s monochromatic canvases. Wei’s work ingeniously plays with linguistic and visual perception, overlaying Chinese calligraphic forms with English words that deliberately confuse and challenge viewers’ understanding of communication and cultural boundaries.
Govinda Sah ‘Azad’ brings a metaphysical approach to his paintings, evolving from realist techniques to abstract representations inspired by natural phenomena. His canvases, created through what he describes as a “long unfolding conversation between artist and canvas,” reflect meditations on light and environmental transformation.
Jukhee Kwon’s innovative book sculptures represent another fascinating dimension of the exhibition. By meticulously transforming abandoned books into intricate paper constructions, Kwon explores themes of recycling and rebirth. Her work Endless, comprising 10,000 tiny seed-filled envelopes, symbolizes the cyclical nature of existence.
Golnaz Fathi represents a unique artistic perspective, having been trained in traditional Persian calligraphy before choosing a contemporary artistic path. Her works, such as Sunset and No rain will put out this fire…, demonstrate a remarkable fusion of traditional refinement and bold abstraction.
Huang Xu contributes photographic works that use high-resolution 3D scanning to reveal hidden essences of objects. His Flower Series, particularly the chrysanthemum piece, transforms technological precision into a meditation on cultural symbolism and natural beauty.
The exhibition will run from 10th April to 17th May, 2025, at the October Gallery. A gallery talk is scheduled for Saturday, 12th April at 3 PM, offering visitors an opportunity to engage more deeply with the artists’ perspectives.
