BIO
Andrew Ooi (pronounced “o͞oē”) is a self-taught, emerging artist, interested in how an unconventional application of common materials and techniques affects our interpretation of time, space, perspective, art, history, culture and nature. His preferred medium is paper, which he sculpts into abstract, geometric forms, achieved through folds interpolating their pattern and grid structures. The results are works that appear different at many angles, constantly keeping the eye engaged, much like the sculptures and paintings of favourite artists, Alexander Calder and Bridget Riley. To date, his art has been published in various books and magazines; awarded multiple grants; and exhibited in US and Canada: including Pittsburgh, New York, Los Angeles, Ottawa and Toronto, where he is currently based.
STATEMENT
Regardless the theme or form my works takes on–from sculpture to installation, history to humanity–its guiding principles remain the same: to respect our sense of time, materials and traditions toward developing a new appreciation for modern art and artists. ¶ As life’s pace continues to accelerate, slowing down and processing information becomes increasingly difficult. Making art by hand, repetitively, and in stages–such as painting and folding countless small papers; knotting fine cords; cutting and stenciling cardstock or plastic sheets–allows me to experience the moment as a meditation: becoming aware of my intentions, subject, materials and the people and industry responsible. Engineers, designers, papermakers, scientists, workshops, labs, studios, mills and more: all attributing their unique methods and expertise, inspiring the next direction, the next innovation of contemporary art.