Current Exhibition

The Conceit of Counting: New Work by Owen Schuh
September 11 - October 17, 2009
Opening Reception September 11, 6 - 8 PM

More work by Owen Schuh

"The Conceit of Counting" is an exploration on the relation between organic forms and
mathematical symmetry. Stemming from the idea that complex natural systems and models for
phenomena-like flocks of birds, slime mold, ant colonies, forest fires etc.-can be described by very
simple geometric and mathematical rules, Schuh employs these rules to create astonishing
structural pieces on two dimensional surfaces. He builds structures by adding single drops of paint
in oil and acrylic onto a surface, until a pattern emerges. Fantastic accretions in rich colors and
luscious thickness sprout from the flat surfaces, very much mimicking real and imaginary
organisms, and representing tangible illustrations of mathematical principles such as fractals and
chaos theory.

Schuh's interrogation of the mysterious effectiveness of mathematics at describing living systems
draws from a wide range of sources. Among them, we find the work of Alighiero e Boetti, with their
simple yet effective use of ciphers and simple mathematical principles, or the study of philosophers
like Kant, Hegel, and Heidegger, and the exploration of the use of language as a way to create an
underlying semantic structure within a visual image.

Ultimately, the questions that most interest Schuh revolve around the relationship between nature
and artifice, and logic and form. Rather than working from nature toward an abstract representation
of it, he works toward nature from the abstract concept of "pure" math. As opposed to a single fixed
model, these works imply the possibility of multiple rational viewpoints of the natural world.
While Owen Schuh's work might sound a mere intellectual endeavor, it shouldn't be taken simply as
concept art: despite following precise rules, the works possess a definite beauty and evoke a great
sense of wonder.

Owen Schuh was born and raised in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. He graduated from Haverford
College in 2004, and received his Masters of Fine Art from Tyler School of Art in 2007 where he
completed his final year of study in Rome, Italy. His work is a unique blend of mathematics,
philosophy, and the observation of nature. It has been exhibited internationally and in numerous
private collections. He currently resides in San Jose, California.