I typically find such gimmicky uses of alliteration overplayed and elementary, but Kosyo Minchev’s “Lambs and Landscapes” at Stux Gallery does the literary device proud. In addition to having a knack for naming his art exhibitions, Minchev’s work is rather exceptional. I find that most sculptures occupy space in one of two very polarized realms: realist sculptures that are belabored by Grecian classicism or something of a more modern and avant-garde fashion that leave you wondering if you’re looking at a person or a cow. Minchev’s large, aqua resin busts fall beautifully in between both styles to create a dynamic, multi-textured animal that dresses to impress.  

Lamb At The Slaughter

The most captivating aspect of Minchev’s sculptures is by far the seamless transition from glass-smooth surfaces to rugged and tortured textures that suggestively resemble bowels and innards. This disruption represents both the violent execution of animals as part of a very cruel yet normalized practice of murder, as well as demonstrating the versatility of Minchev’s artistic ability. The lambs also lack a certain facial detail that helps to further remove them from humanity, making their slaughter all the more acceptable and even mundane. As a result, his sculptures stand as a three-dimensional testament to the slow death of nature at the hands of man, and expose our total resignation of sympathy for its sure extinction.

                   Art enthusiasts Lee (L) and Jay at Stux Gallery. Photo: Camilo Fuentealba

Additionally, I think Minchev’s choice of aqua resin as a medium corroborates the interpretation of his lambs representing the slaughter of more than just animals. As an experienced sculptor, Minchev could have easily manipulated a plethora of different materials to construct images of lambs, landscapes, and the like. However, he chose a medium that would allow for the easy reproduction of each piece, mimetic to the process we’ve adopted most recently to slaughtering mother nature herself.

Where, Oh Where, Did My Little Lamb Go?

The exhibit also exists beyond Minchev’s sculptures as he frames them in scenic backgrounds of snow-covered mountains, open fields, and trees. This very noticeable, very physical distance serves to separate the subject from its surroundings in an attempt to further emphasize the space in between. Consequently, you end up with a beautiful conjunction of both the innocence and chaos of nature accentuated by the holes that Minchev has intentionally carved into the exhibit’s reproduction of nature.

“Lambs and Landscapes” is a smart, attractive eulogy for mother nature and is not to be missed – definitely worth the trek down to Chelsea during one of the coldest months of the year, although I’m sure global warming will make it a nice summery visit in just a day or two.

• Stux Gallery – Kosyo Minchev, “Lambs and Landscapes” – January 24 – February 23rd, 2013, Tues – Sat: 10am– 6pm [Price range of artworks circa $25,000]

Article Written by Eric Rydin

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