The art of the times is expressed through the technology of the times. In the 19th century Impressionism emerged from a confluence of scientific forces. Advances in chemistry enabled the production of paints with a purity not seen before. Advances in metallurgy led to the creation of small metal tubes so that painters could carry paints into the field. Scientific thinking changed popular consciousness and allowed artists to perceive the world in new ways. This led to the exploration of nature not just as phenomena external to the human body, but as shapes of light being cast inside one's retina.
Similarly, contemporary New Media art emerged from a confluence of technological and artistic forces. The primary medium of expression in this show is light, and this selection of works, mostly using LEDs, is the result of the intersection of the culture of "makers" and the culture of fine art. "Maker culture" refers to collective spaces - known as makerspaces - where members can use laser cutters, 3d printers, and learn how to program microcontrollers, wire power supplies and use sensors, motors and LEDs. This skillset is further extended by the development of artist-centric programming frameworks such as P5.js and Processing, as well as tools such as Touchdesigner.
Artist Biographies:
Jason Yung is a Brooklyn-based Canadian artist working primarily in light; his work here explores how light can be used to explore painting principles of the past, as well as exploring novel ways to combine light with painting. His work expresses themes centred around spirituality and individuation.
Louise Lessél is a Brooklyn-based Danish artist whose work is centred around nature. Her pieces here (far wall) are algorithmically programmed mating patterns for three species of male fireflies native to the New York region.
Aidan Fowler is a Brooklyn-based American artist whose work deals with time and pushes the boundaries of materials and different ways to combine them. His work here is about finding novel forms of movement.
Markus Heckmann is a Toronto-based German artist whose work creates complex patterns and images from a single image. Markus is the technical director at Derivative, the company that make TouchDesigner, a powerful tool for creatives.
For more information, or to book a physical or virtual visit, get in touch with the gallery at info@mytasayogallery.com
