The 456 Gallery, part of the Chinese American Arts Council, is currently featuring a solo exhibition by the talented Chinese artist Ying Hung, running until October 18. Titled “Puzzle Breathing,” this exhibition presents a striking collection of paintings and sculptures that reflect the artist’s free-flowing thoughts and the unpredictable essence of life.
In our conversation, Ying Hung explains that the foundation of her work often springs from imagined scenes and images that aren’t linked to any specific location or environment. Rather, these ideas materialize as ever-evolving combinations of lines, shapes, and patterns, creating a puzzle-like fluidity. She intentionally minimizes the narrative elements of her art, seeking to blur boundaries and encourage viewers to interpret the pieces through their own lenses of imagination and understanding.
Ying Hung also recognizes the weight of pressing social issues—political tensions, cross-cultural interactions, and climate challenges—that frequently occupy her thoughts. While her artwork may not overtly tackle these themes, subtle hints of these complexities can be discovered woven throughout her creations.
After receiving her Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Chinese University of Hong Kong in 1980, Ying Hung relocated to New York to pursue her Master’s degree at Pratt Institute, where she has continued to live and work. Her extensive exhibition history includes both solo and group shows in New York and internationally, highlighted by her participation in the 1983 Arts Biennial organized by the Hong Kong Arts Centre and a showcase at the Bronx Museum of the Arts.
Notably, she has presented solo exhibitions such as “Wandering Mind and Objects” at Geng Gallery in Taiwan, as well as “Reversed Gaze: A Dialogue Between Women and Art” at the Ju Ming Museum. Much of her work incorporates layering, juxtaposition, and reconstruction techniques, consistently aiming to build form while deconstructing reality, which reflects a Zen-like quality and a philosophical depth.
The exhibition will remain open to the public until October 18 at the 456 Gallery, located on the third floor at 456 Broadway in New York. Viewing hours are Monday through Friday from 1 PM to 5 PM. Those interested in attending can call (212) 431-9740 to schedule an appointment.
