Maria Taniguchi

Maria Taniguchi's paintings and videos draw attention to acts of composing, constructing, and framing. Her ongoing series »Untitied (Brick Paintings)«, which the artist paints brick by brick, draws attention to the physical accumulation of individual time. Beginning with a monochrome grey background, Taniguchi maps out a network of small graphite lines mimicking the designs used in bricklaying. Then, using varying densities of black acrylic paint, each brick is meticulously filled in – allowing for slight aberrations to be brought out in the formal patterning as light reflects off the smooth surface. Her work deals with the progression of time, in relation to the accumulation of form and experience in artistic production. The repetition and modulation of individual markings read like a coded speech locked in persistent conversation. It is a conversation seemingly closed in, while in fact being open to present interruptions and future engagements.

Taniguchi's large-format, wall-like paintings, measuring up to 15 feet tall, also take on dimensions that are decidedly sculptural and architectural: Stretched on aluminum frames, they are set on the floor, gently leaning against the gallery walls. The aesthetic of exterior surface is brought into the interior, as a phantom shadow of a built environment. Continuing the line of artists dealing with time-based patterning, Taniguchi maps the process of self-awareness through an understanding of the continuity of time.