Frances Lai Wang
Jewelry, Sculpture and Oil on Canvas
ARTIST STATEMENT:
I have always been moved by simple, pure forms - the Noguchi's Zen-like quality - revering the beauty and grace of nature.
My work lives between abstract geometric forms depicting the essence of all matters and human forms celebrating the universal human truths of hope, courage and spirit. My favorite mediums in sculpture are alabaster (marble-like) and bronze, since both materials are known for their vitality and energy, which provide me the strength, purpose and vision in my work.
My bronze work is a rather complex process moving from hand modeling of special mixed-was (resin plus brown microcrystal wax) coating with ceramic shell (dipping about 12 times) to lost-wax casting, then back to hand finishing. Each piece is, indeed, a long journey of its own.
My paintings are profoundly influenced by Cubism, as I do not merely paint the surface of the objects, rather search for the essence and the innerness and of the matters. Fragmenting the objects into their shapes, planes and volume to create dynamism and rhythm is the ultimate challenge for me. I believe what Mondrian said,“ the surface of things gives enjoyment, the interiority gives life”.
Stone carving requires another set of tools and process. I usually like to use hand tools,hammer and chisel, to feel the beauty and natural patterns of the stone and then switch to power diamond and pneumatic tools to speed up long process. The creation takes place between labor and discovery, love and perseverance.
Frances Lai Wang was born in China and immigrated to the United States when her father became the director of the Chinese section at the United Nations. She received her Bachelors degree from Hollins College and her Masters degree in Chemistry/Math from the University of Illinois. She later returned to California State University at Long Beach and received her BA in Fine Arts in 1989 and is now studying painting at LBCC.
Wang has exhibited her work at the "Artisan Showcase" at the Orange County Museum, the California State University Museum at Long Beach and the Bowers Museum store, as well as numerous arts and crafts shows. You can view more of her work at www.franceslaiwang.com
To purchase call: 310-991-7144 or e-mail gabrielle.artistsstudio.pvac@gmail.com
