The artist first draws and carves designs like those used in henna body painting on woodblocks for printing onto paper plates. She then blends archival oil-based ink directly on the woodblock, varying the thickness of the pigment on each block in order to create expressive patterns that vary with each impression. The block-printed paper plates are then coated on both sides with acrylic polymer for longevity. No longer disposable, each plate is now transformed and imprinted with life.

Hung precariously overhead, the plates create a physically and psychologically altered space that forces viewers to contemplate the brevity of the medium and the uncontrollable passage of time, as the plates and inks naturally fade and disintegrate. Ultimately, Flight of the Canyon is a visual expression of the power, value, and fragility of each human life.

About The Artist

Born in India and a dermatologist by previous profession, Abhidnya “Abhi” Ghuge is a multidisciplinary installation artist. Currently an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Art and Art History at the University of Texas at Tyler, she has exhibited in solo and group shows throughout the United States, and her work can be found in collections throughout India and the United Kingdom.

This exhibition is curated by Jacqueline Chao, Curator of Asian Art, and organized by the Crow Collection of Asian Art.

Don’t forget to read the full interview Taking Flight: An Interview with Abhidnya Ghuge by our Curator Jacqueline Chao.

Members’ Reception and Artist Talk:

July 21 5 to 6 p.m.