SHOHA

My practice explores Dynamic Equilibrium—temporary states that emerge through the differences and relations between distinct elements. At the foundation of this practice are what I call the Three Visual Principles.The Three Visual Principles consist of Polarity, Continuum, and Ma. Polarity considers the relation between two distinct poles; Continuum addresses the changes and transitions that exist between them; and Ma considers the field in which different elements can remain distinct while existing in relation to one another. Rather than treating these three principles separately, I use their interrelations as a way of composing and perceiving my work.I work across materials with different properties, including acrylic and oil paint, sumi ink, resin, mineral pigments, metals, plants, wax, metal leaf, glass, and clay. I observe how these materials transform through heat, gravity, flow, drying, oxidation, and solidification, intervening and making choices throughout the process. Materials do not always respond as intended; through the relation between my interventions and the forces acting upon them, states emerge that cannot be fully predicted.By Dynamic Equilibrium, I mean a temporary state in which different elements remain distinct without cancelling one another out. It is not a static balance, but a state that emerges from multiple relations and can shift into another state as those relations change.For me, making art is not about imposing a predetermined form onto materials. I work upon materials and phenomena, observe their responses, and respond in turn to the changes that emerge, intervening further when necessary.A work is the material fixation of a temporary state that has emerged through this relation between intervention and action.For more details on the Three Visual Principles, please see here.