Mariela Garibay & Hong-Yi Zhuang: "The language of emotions" in Zürich

MARIELA GARIBAY

Mariela Garibay tells us that the sculpture is not only shape, but the language the artist chose to communicate and the result of a work of preliminary internalization on the message which she passes on. Sculpture is a discipline which requires some patience, many hours of work and love; love for the idea, the work, the message and the unknown person who one day will discover it. This is essential to the success of the work. It can last months between the elaboration of a drawing and the realization of the sculpture. The sculpture is a slow but sure process. "All the hours of reflection, maturation, work and given love, make me aware of the value of things" the artist confesses. Her sculpture is figurative but not realistic; Mariela Garibay observes the world around her and transcribes it with a lot of tenderness through childish characters. The sculpture of Mariela Garibay is positive and generous, it immortalizes a moment of happiness seized by the artist, a peaceful moment, a good memory, a smile, a surprise, a simple and sincere enjoyment.

HONG YI ZHUANG 

Embracing his present without losing his past, Zhuang defines a sense of self that exists between the two and enacts this personal story visually, balancing between phases of controlled planning, emotional gesture, and careful editing that result in works of beauty, surprise, and curiosity. Zhuang's work is distinguished by its bold color schemes and sophisticated, recurring, and precise floral motifs that symbolize a universal symbol of prosperity and optimism. Zhuang’s consistent return to this theme throughout his work showcases his ongoing refinement and experimentation, oscillating between raw emotion and carefully orchestrated artistry. The profound inspiration drawn from nature's efflorescence can be traced back to the moment Zhuang first saw the renowned tulip fields nestled within the picturesque Dutch landscapes; this inspiration continues to serve as the cornerstone of Zhuang's artistic creations. As of today, he splits his time between his studio in China and his residence in Switzerland.