Hong Shaoying’s solo exhibition at 456 Gallery uses abstraction to deconstruct reality, which is both Zen-like and full of imagination.

The 456 Gallery, part of the Chinese American Arts Council, is excited to announce a solo exhibition by Chinese artist Ying Hung, featuring her captivating paintings and sculptures on display until October 18. Titled “Puzzle Breathing,” this exhibition presents a collection of oil paintings and sculptures that showcase the artist’s fluid thoughts and the ever-evolving nature of the world around us.

In a recent conversation, Ying Hung shared that the core themes of her work often originate from vivid imagery and landscapes that dwell in her imagination. However, instead of depicting realistic scenes like mountains or rivers, her art transforms into a dynamic composition of lines, shapes, and patterns—akin to a puzzle that embodies flexibility. She intentionally minimizes the narrative elements in her pieces, striving to blur established concepts and inspire viewers to engage their own imaginations and interpretations.

Ying Hung also opened up about her reflections on pressing societal issues such as political tensions, cross-cultural interactions, and climate change, which frequently occupy her thoughts. While her artwork may not overtly illustrate these themes, the complexities inherent in these topics subtly resonate through her art.

After earning her Bachelor’s degree from the Department of Fine Arts at The Chinese University of Hong Kong in 1980, Ying made her way to New York to pursue a Master’s degree at Pratt Institute. Since then, she has called the city home, exhibiting in both solo and group shows throughout New York and internationally. A highlight of her career includes participating in the 1983 Art Biennale organized by the Hong Kong Arts Centre, with her works showcased at the Bronx Museum of the Arts.

Additionally, Ying has held solo exhibitions at Geng Gallery in Taiwan, titled “Mind and Material Journey,” and at the Ju Ming Museum, where she presented “Inverted Gaze: A Dialogue Between Women and Art.” Much of her work is characterized by techniques of layering, juxtaposition, and reconstruction, as she continually investigates the construction of form while deconstructing reality, imparting a sense of Zen and fostering philosophical dialogue.

The exhibition runs until October 18 (Friday) at the 456 Gallery, located at 456 Broadway, 3rd Floor, New York. The gallery is open Monday through Friday from 1 PM to 5 PM. Interested visitors can make an appointment by calling (212) 431-9740.