EVERSINCE, AUDITION FOR DAYDREAM 
 by Singapore based artist Mike HJ Chang (張翕如: Chang His-ju) 
 7/18(Sat) - 8/1(Sat) 

 Opening Reception: Saturday, July 18; 4 - 7PM 

Featuring three newly conceived projects, this inaugural text-based exhibition combines the artist's interest in “language and the production of meaning”. Of paramount concern for Mike is the equal sign (=), which is generally used in mathematics to describe the relationship between two things, or as the manifestation of a symmetrical axis. Critical to the success of this ambitious undertaking will be the audience's participation, the actual subject of these experiments in socio-mathematic sculpture.

Activating our empty gallery as a place of “fearful ambience, but welcoming for someone,” Mike invites participants to “do nothing” within the installation, Buying Time. Generally regarded as unproductive, unfruitful inactivity, the question is: Is “doing nothing” possible? Moreover, what are the symbolic and poetic implications contrasted with our accumulations of information, the function of art in contemporary culture, and the relationship between time and money?

As Mike says:
“The way we use equations in communication can be scary, though it sets a parameter for me to think critically, if not creatively, and hopefully, transgressively. Equations draw a clear line between common sense and total absurdity, while it rids of subtlety, and distorts the truth.”

You Don't Need Two
Free eyebrow shaving service. The artist will be providing this professional service to remove one of your eyebrows. “To be honest, you don't need two of them.”

Audition
Volunteers needed for this experimental video shoot. The artist needs about eight willing "actors" to perform different characters. The format of the video is similar to an audition for film parts. While the actors face the video camera, the director would give instructions for what kind of character should be portrayed. No acting experience necessary. Snacks and drinks provided.

About the artist:
Singapore-based, American artist Mike HJ Chang was born in Taiwan. He earned his BFA at UCLA, and his MFA at California Institute of the Arts. He has participated in numerous group exhibitions, and has been featured in five solo exhibitions. He currently works as an art teacher in the Nanyang Girls' School Art Elective Program in Singapore.