“Que’s interest in systems of logic and language, and how they influence how we view and experience life, has guided the artist to develop her own unique coded visual language. She is fascinated by extraordinary systems of logic, such as the Navajo code talkers who significantly aided the victories of the U.S. and its allies in WWII with their unwritten language.
Sharon Que approaches her work from a triad of content, material, and technique, looking for a synergy amongst the three, and using recurring images from nature and geometry to reveal her own “coded inner life.”
The maquette for Que’s monumental installation in GM’s new Design West Building stands on its own merit. Deep to blonde wood tones are composed into a honeycomb-like pattern. Wood grain, hand drawn circles and gold leaf embellishments further the dimensionality.
The maquette’s motif appears in other works providing continuity to this exhibition. Birch bark’s naturally occurring lines seamlessly integrate into Que’s intricate designs. Celestial bodies in a night sky illuminate, protectively captaining the piece.
The familiar utility tower is the only relief in a common road trip scene that stretches to the horizon. Tightly painted stripes pour down the right side pooling in tiny carved-out reservoirs.
Que deviates from symmetry to an organic Chinese lattice ornamentation. Linear colors bend into a 70s vibration anchored by mirrored meteorological heavens.
Sharon Que’s dioramas demonstrate meticulous craftsmanship borne from 30 years of restoring and repairing violins to optimum condition. She combines natural with man-made elements which communicate the same grace and attention to detail as a finely tuned instrument.
“When the moment is right, we can blend into the universe, seeing patterns and pattern interruptions.” –Sharon Que
On view through August 10th at Matéria 444 W Willis Detroit
*images are mine
direct quote from gallery materials
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SHOWS OPEN THIS WEEKEND