Of Love, Pins, and Needles

March 08 - April 20,2024

From Anya Tish Gallery: "Anya Tish Gallery is pleased to present Of Love, Pins, and Needles, an exhibition of work by three international artists: Han Cao, Andrey Chezhin, and Marcella Colavecchio. Inspired by the familiarity of the human figure, each artist utilizes early 20 th century darkroom processes to explore the ways in which photography is used as a narrative medium, a means to challenge historical contexts, and a catalyst for modernism. Known for her signature hand-embroidered vintage photographs, Dallas-based, Vietnamese artist Han Cao examines intersecting ideas of identity, memory, and nostalgia. Similar themes can be found in Austin-based, Italian American artist Marcella Colavecchio’s poetic and intimate digitally manipulated 35mm film photographs, which visually mimic the retro Polaroid prints. Russian artist, Andrey Chezhin’s 1980-1990’s body of work is comprised of silver gelatin sepia prints that give homage to the works of iconic modernist artists, such as Robert Mapplethorpe, Jackson Pollock, amongst others. This collection of works allows viewers to enter a time machine where they will be challenged to define their own compelling narratives within the context of each artist’s unique photographic aesthetic. In Han Cao’s new body of work, the artist begins with vintage images, replacing faces and garments with botanical motifs hand- embroidered in vibrant threads, visualizing the metaphorical emotional capacity of each figure, whilst likening the depths of their memories, feelings, and thoughts. Cao says, “I am always trying to change the story of the photo, but this method allows me to transport the figure into a different world.” Han Cao’s artwork aims to create modern narratives for found photos – forging connections between individuals from the past and those in the present. The artist loves the unexpected texture created from needle and thread, noting how it fosters a deeper connection between viewers and the artwork as they uncover its subtle dimensions. This unexpected intimacy encourages viewers to initiate their own dialogue with the distant strangers depicted, fostering a more engaging experience when interacting with the piece up close. Within her photographs, Cao captures a diverse array of stories that mirror personal perspectives on gender, relationships, and societal roles. Her artwork serves as an exploration of connection amidst disconnection, infused with her unique sense of humor. The image of the push pin - flat and at the same time voluminous - appeared by chance for Russian photographer Andrey Chezhin (born 1960). For Chezhin, the push pin became a module, an additional element (similarly as in Kazimir Malevich’s theory) for the project, The Drawing Pin and Modernism - which serves as a postmodernist exploration of modernism. The artist skillfully employs a wide array of postmodernist techniques, including the revision and ironic re-evaluation of cultural achievements from the past, hypertextuality, and a purposeful obscurity from the creator’s perspective. Andrey Chezhin engages with modernism playfully, teasing it and literally pinpricking it. Through repeated challenges to a duel/dialogue, he pierces modernism with his drawing pin épée, creating a dynamic interaction that adds layers of meaning to the discourse surrounding artistic movements. This artistic endeavor has received global praise and critical acclaim; many of Chezhin’s photographs from this series can be found in major institutional, private, and museum collections such as the State Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg, Russia; Brooklyn Museum of Art, Brooklyn, NY; Museum of Fine Arts Houston, Houston, TX; amongst many others. Transitioning from figurative painting, Texas-based artist Marcella Colavecchio's latest body of work, titled The Fast Lane, is comprised of digital collages. Initially captured with a 35mm camera, the images undergo digital manipulation to evoke the iconic and nostalgic aesthetic of Polaroid film. At the core of Colavecchio's artistic pursuit lies the desire to reveal hidden moments—the nuanced instances between shots that unveil the unguarded authenticity of her subjects. This commitment to unearthing the unseen imbues her visual narratives with layers of depth, weaving together a tapestry of emotions and experiences. A significant component to The Fast Lane is the intricate relationship between image and language. Each photograph is paired with a subtitle, extending an invitation for the viewer to engage in a dialogue within the visual narrative. These subtitles transcend mere descriptors; they serve as integral components, conveying unique messages that enhance and complement the visual experience. By engaging the viewer on a dual sensory level, the combination of image and text encourages contemplation, introspection, and a deeper connection with the rebellious ethos portrayed in Colavecchio's work."

Reception: March 08, 2024 | 6-8 pm

Anya Tish Gallery 4411 Montrose
Houston, TX 77006
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