
01/18/2025
ON VIEW NOW:
Simon Bertrand & Henry Mandell
Entanglement
Conceptually, the artists explore much of the same terrain. Thematically, both artists are interested in astrophysics, metaphysics, history, nature, literature, scientific practices, and the interconnectedness of all things on this planet and in the universe. Process-wise these artists are methodical, rigorous, and detail-obsessed; this yields work that is incredibly dense and complex. Often appearing near-chaotic at first glance, the work gives way to reveal organization and order within carefully planned parameters, often referencing patterns we see in the natural world. The artists are interested in repetition, in ritual, in slowly following the work where it leads them. However, structure does not override sensuality or sensitivity in the work - drawing is at the heart of both artists’ practices. The dense, layered works are markedly handmade – each contains a series of thousands of choices made by the artist. In that way, the past becomes present again when the work is looked at, allowing the viewer to add their own experience on top, another layer to the piece.