No solids are absolute solids, and no fluids are absolute fluids. Porosity extends far beyond the purview of positivist science. Scientists are intrigued by how numerous pores form a solid structure, which can be multiplied and loaded with other materials to form a complex network of serendipitous functions and developments. As a new concept emphasizing cushioning, connectivity, and balance, porosity becomes an equally crucial idea for artists because of its radical potential to reshape the human-material-community relationship. An artist’s media is essentially a porous unit, and the resulting product, a porous construction, for instance, a museum, or a constellation of objects and ideas. When the voids return to the shadows or the absolute opposite, become the silhouette, the audience will confront the solid truth as an ultimate process, but the truth can also reshape the voids in a relational way. Without the pores, the remaining framework is a human skeleton, an Internet matrix, and a museum frame, but with an excess of them, the result is a loose net deprived of all mediational beauty. Artists always aspire to seek the mesmerizing balance in every porous construction, but not necessarily the absolute truth. Art is about truth, but not it per se.
Porous Constructions is a curatorial project that uses curation as its primary methodology to explore the implications of “porosity,” especially in visual art and curatorial practice. Specifically, through manifold engagement with materials and media, artists transform their space and life into porous constructions, thus enabling new fundamental ways of understanding art and humanity. The network they create is stable and independent, yet open to channeling emotions and ideas. Therefore, our exhibition mirrors the porosity of contemporary life through that of material, body, and media. Moreover, this porous thinking will also be interwoven into the curatorial design, mainly spatial and light-sound design to challenge a singular linear narrative to favor a composite structure that breathes and moves as the audience moves. As a provocative metaphor and symbol, Porous Constructions aspires to facilitate cross-cultural connections and deepen ideational exchanges in a more open field, which strongly aligns with the values and objectives of Unveil Gallery: Through exhibitions and events, to foster cross-cultural dialogue between different communities, languages, and cultures; to create a space for people to connect and engage with one another.
Written by Moham (Zheng) Wang, Curator
June 14, 2024, Fremont, CA