Michael Velliquette’s metal paper sculptures delve into the nature of consciousness — huge

Michael Velliquette conceives mesmerizing geometric patterns from cut, grooved, perforated and layered metallic-coated paper. Known for his mandala-like works, which sometimes rise from a base like towers or appear as multiple circular layers swirling, he continues to explore “the subtle topography within,” a statement about his new exhibition said.

seeing lightVelliquette’s solo exhibition of 21 new works at Duane Reed Gallery delves into themes of consciousness and light, both in the physical sense that light enables us to see, and in the way that lighting itself is a metaphor for consciousness and enlightenment. Through monochromatic reliefs, he emphasizes perception, materiality, and humanity’s relationship with nature.

Veliquette often repeats specific shapes, such as eyes, stars, small flowers, and circles. Many other shapes also appear frequently, from punched triangles to countless small disks with scalloped edges. Sometimes the overall composition reads like a meditation on repeated form, like a mandala, where all sides are essentially the same. In other works, almost cartoonish elements appear in the form of flowers, with faces or human silhouettes rotating around a central ball.

A statement said: “Through repetitive and precise acts – cutting, shaping and assembling complex layers and shapes – Velicut’s paper sculptures become objects of meditation, asking the viewer not only to look, but also to think. look——Facing the work with a quiet awareness that reflects the process of making the work. “

seeing light The event will run in St. Louis until December 13th. See more information on the artist’s website and Instagram.