Gus Albor (b. 1948)
a) Untitled
b) Temporal
signed and dated 2004 (lower left) each
mixed media on canvas
8" x 8" (20 cm x 20 cm) each

In these two works, Albor does not only showcase the diverse
possibilities of his approach, but also how his practice can
create juxtaposing pieces that stem from the same philosophy.
Here, one work is created through a thick and almost
spontaneous layer of paint. While the other piece reflects the
much more meditative side of Albor’s approach as it features
a seemingly slowly expanding circle. As in Zen art, the viewer’s
interpretation of visual elements adds to the art work as a
visual experience pregnant with enigmatic meanings, despite
its minimalism
Albor's art-making always avoided representation, his oeuvre
has always been a steady progression away from objects and
external reference. His visual language progressed to works
in different shades of the same neutral color. Albor is best
known for his dominantly gray paintings. In this piece, Albor
seemingly confronts the aesthetic potentialities of minimalism
by showcasing two images side by side, one featuring Albor’s
more experimentations with color and shape, and another
utilizing Albor’s trademark use of white. Albor’s piece and use of
space suggests a certain narrative arc at play, one that reflects
Albor’s musings regarding art as it enters a new era. (J.D.)