Sophia Chizuco

Particles of Shimmering Nature

Opening Reception

Saturday, December 7th 6-8PM

Thomas VanDyke Gallery is pleased to present Particles of Shimmering Nature, new work by Sophia Chizuco. Chizuco is a multidisciplinary artist, art educator, and curator based in New York, originally from Japan. She received her B.A. in Art and Education from Tokyo Gakugei University and moved to New York in 2000 to study abstract painting at the Art Students League of NY. Chizuco has been selected as a leader for various community art projects, including ArtBridge public art project, the “Hospital-Based Community Murals Project” at the NYC Health + Hospitals Arts in Medicine program, ProjectArt: Art and Social Practice at the Cypress Hills library, and as an artist-in-residence at Su Casa in Brooklyn, New York. She has also conducted workshops at Non-profit organizations such as the Bronx Council on the Arts, NARS Foundation, and Lewis Latimer House Museum.

She has been also a mentor at the Immigrant Artists Program at the New York Foundation for the Arts, and has curated shows for immigrant artists. Her curatorial projects have been featured by various publications, including White Hot Magazine, World Journal (Chinese newspaper), Yomitime (Japanese paper), and ConEdison Newsletter. Her curatorial project, “Self-Reflection: Rehash/Practicing Uncertainty” was selected by the Bronx Council on the Arts.

Chizuco received the grand prize from ArtNetwork and a merit scholarship from the Art Students League of NY. Her work has been exhibited nationally and internationally, including at the Staten Island Museum, New York Hall of Science, ChaShaMa, the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum (Japan), Affordable Art Fair in Brussels (Belgium), and Makati Shangri-La Hotel (Philippines).

STATEMENT FROM THE ARTIST

As a multidisciplinary artist based in New York, with deep roots in Japan, my work is profoundly shaped by the organic beauty and natural rhythms of the world around me. Growing up amidst the majestic landscapes of rural Japan—where mountains, green tea fields, and the vast Pacific Ocean stretch endlessly—I found inspiration in the intricate details of life. My childhood was spent closely observing small creatures like frogs, snakes, lizards, and insects, whose forms and movements I carefully sketched. These early experiences laid the foundation for my artistic practice, which seeks to evoke the harmonious interplay between the elements of nature and human existence.

In my paintings, I transform cherished memories—such as the brilliance of sunlight and the twinkling of stars—into minimalistic geometric shapes, particularly circles and lines. These circular forms are inspired by the Zen concept of Enso, representing life, light, spirit, peace, infinity, and continuity. The symbolism of the circle resonates deeply with me, reflecting my desire for harmony and balance, both in art and in life.

During my time as an assistant to the Japanese Ambassador for Disarmament and International Security at the United Nations, I was often struck by the discord between nations. The ongoing conflicts, driven by differences in opinion and ego, left me yearning for a more peaceful world. The circle, to me, represents the most peaceful shape—a symbol of unity, wholeness, and the globe itself. In a world fraught with endless war, conflict, and sadness, I hold onto the hope that peace and happiness can prevail.

My artistic practice explores the deep connections between humanity, society, and the natural world. Through my work, I strive to inspire reflection and evoke emotional resonance, weaving the beauty of nature with the complexities of human life. I hope to transcend boundaries and foster moments of introspection, ultimately creating a sense of wonder and connection in those who encounter my art.