Fred Chuang

Proteus Fred Chuang

Mixed Media: Porcelainized Paper Wasp Nest, Ceramic Glaze, Dyed Coral, Quartz Crystals, Cultured Pearl, Labradorite 5.5" x 5.5" x 3.75" $500

My mixed-media sculptural pieces are an inter-species collaboration. In this example, dyed natural coral, quartz crystals, cultured pearls, and polished drops of labradorite transform a porcelainized paper wasp structure into a radiant, floral metaphor. The ceramic glaze color, the flashing blue of the labradorite, and the origin of many of the inclusions suggest a marine origin. Proteus is the name of the Greek shape-shifting demigod of the ocean and the namesake of the Protea flower genus. The shattered surface of the underside reveals the inner shapes created by the long-gone insect architects. 21 Contact information for this artist can be found on page 86.