Transparent microfilaments stretched thin from floor to ceiling suspend Allen Guilmette's twenty-four resin-coated panels at eye-level--imbuing his installation, Bending the Rule, with the illusion of precarious levitation. The fragile balance of weight and weightlessness encourages viewers to circumnavigate the piece carefully so as not to disturb the perceived equilibrium. (Installation photo courtesy of Togonon Gallery).
.png)
The geometric cadences of Guilmette's minimalist-influenced work resonates throughout the viewing experience: At first glance, the filaments, resin panels, and light-reflected surfaces geometrically order and shape the gallery space. Upon closer examination, each panel showcases a progression of line drawings that challenge the tenets of the Rules of Harmonic Proportion (ex: extending a diagonal line from a corner of any given quadrilateral to create a new figure with the same proportions. See also: Golden Ratio). By using multiple points of reference to create new shapes and line patterns, Guilmette examines "the rule" gone awry--it is a study of repetition, pattern, and ratios.
While Guilmette's work is decidedly mimimalist with its committment to rationality in execution and concept, Bending the Rule communicates a certain spiritual sensibility through its endless, ritualistic repetition and the contemplative tone it seems to exude upon its viewers as well as the space it occupies. Indeed, mathematicians, artists, and philosophers alike have found the patterns, ratios, and mathematic principles manifested in nature/physical world to be sublimely awe-inspiring.
Bending the Rule continues at Togonon Gallery (77 Geary, second floor) through May 9, 2009.
Comments
I had the pleasure of being able to witness Allen Guilmette's opening night on 4/2/09 and was intrigued with his introduction and explanation of "Bending The Rule". He captured the audience with his speech and we all left understanding the genius behind his work. The Togonon Gallery did an excellent job in providing the proper space to show these master pieces. Kudos to you all.
I've studied each piece of Allen Guilmette's "Bending the Rule." Photos don't reveal the intricacies, thought, precision and detail of each piece. They're fascinating. They take creativity to a new level, whether alone or as a complete set. Guilmette has brought something fresh and new to the art scene.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!