Artist Statement
Nobel Prize-winning physicist C.V. Raman, who was awarded the prize in 1930 for his work on ‘the scattering of light”, once observed that we often take water for granted, forgetting that it is one of the most powerful forces on Earth, and that “the true elixir of life is water”. Water has shaped our planet’s history and remains a vital force in the ongoing story of life. When silt-laden freshwater merges with the salty sea, the particles settle, altering the water’s color—from muddy red or orange to shades of yellow and green, ultimately blending into the deep blue of the ocean.
Over time, these give rise to new land, rich and fertile…
Born in Vietnam and shaped by my experiences in Canada, Alek explores the fluid connections between memory, migration, and nature. Water is both a subject and a metaphor in their work—an ever-moving force that carries histories, nurtures life, and reshapes landscapes. “Through painting, drawing, and interactive workshops,” says Alek, “I created work inspired by the meaning of the elixir of life.”
Works On View
Vietnamese silk painting is a celebrated art form that blends Western composition principles with Eastern traditions, incorporating elements like calligraphy, brush painting, and silk washing to create a modern form of Vietnamese cultural expression. Silk paintings are characterized by softness, fluidity, and transparency.
Under The Orange Sun explores the connection between water and its role in embracing and nurturing life. At the heart of this piece, a feminine figure transitions into a mountain, embodying the nurturing spirit of mother nature. Surrounding her, fish swim gracefully, inviting viewers into a metaphorical dialogue about adaptation, resilience, and the continuous journey of evolution.
Alek is creating a new silk painting while in residence until March 23, 2025.
Please contact us to arrange for a visit or a workshop with the artist.
Biography
Alek Phan Trúc (they/them) creates art that explores cultural heritage, identity, and nature. Their work uses cultural totems as a metaphor for time, bridging past, present, and future. They hold a B.A in Cultures and Literature, and postgraduate certificates in Arts Education, Community Engagement, and Digital Performance. Their work has been exhibited across Vietnam and Canada, and they have facilitated workshops internationally.