Zenclay Gallery to host Bangmin Nong exhibition Saturday

Zenclay Studio Gallery will be hosting a reception for artist Bangmin Nong.

Nong is a candidate for a West Virginia University Master of Arts. Prior to his time at WVU, Nong studied at Guangxi Arts Institute near his hometown of Nanning Shi, Guangxi China.

Public relations specialist at the Dean's office of the Creative Arts Center Charlene Lattea said she is familiar with Nong's achievements.

"MA thesis exhibitions are cutting-edge contemporary works that represent the highest level of achievement for WVU students as they receive their Master of Arts degree from the School of Art and Design," Lattea said.

His exhibit, entitled "Human Architecture," will complete his thesis exhibition.

Nong chose to depict the human form because of his deep interest in the connection between humans and architecture.

"In any country, the relationship between humans and architecture is an eternal topic. Humans and architecture are inextricably linked, interdependent and mutually influential," Nong said.

His unique style of sculpture depicts both human and human-made figures. Nong uses precise lines and colors to create the image and connection of these figures.

"In the creation of my sculptures, I use line, shape, texture and color to access the unity of these sculptural objects. These characteristics provide the means for a powerful visual message shown in my human landscapes," he said.

Nong takes inspiration from the human body to create his sculptures.

"I think about how to use human and architecture as a topic and creating a vehicle to explore the sculpture's language," he said.

"Combination of the human figure and architectural characteristics are important to the composition of my sculpture as to show how inextricably linked these objects are."

The gallery and exhibit are free and open to the public.

The exhibit opened Nov. 27 and will continue to be available for public viewing until Jan. 28.

Zenclay Studio's gallery hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. or by appointment. The Gallery is closed on Sundays.

For more information, call 304-599-POTS (7687) or visit their website at www.zenclay.com.