By Mason Fujikawa

Awakening at Gallery Sonder is the first exhibition in the United States by Mexican artist Moncho. Moncho takes an instinctive approach to his practice. He doesn’t sketch or even plan before painting. Instead, he draws from his subconscious, working automatically like a surrealist. His pieces are untitled, so an interpretation isn’t imposed on the viewer. The exhibition comprises two contrasting yet complementary series of abstractions: the geometric, hard-edge ABCs and the lyrical, expressionistic XYZs. In Awakening, Moncho creates two visually distinct worlds.

The ABCs are made up of triangles and radiating semicircle patterns that recall traditional Mexican textiles. The vibrantly colored shapes build upon each other, covering each canvas piece by piece. The resulting images resemble natural formations. Untitled ABC #7, for example, resembles an oyster, its pastel color palette producing a mother-of-pearl effect. The compositions are open, implying endless expansion. In Untitled ABC #4, the only closed composition, Moncho leaves the searing red underpainting exposed, bringing attention to its form. This negative space sets it apart from the rest of the series.

Another standout is Untitled ABC #19. Unlike the others, it does not use any lines or semicircles, nor is it multicolored. It is composed entirely of triangles painted in shades of blue and white, creating a glimmering sapphire dimension.

In contrast to the precision of the ABC series, the XYZ series is painted in a loose, Kandinsky-esque style. There are no discernible patterns. The marks are spontaneously applied, with paint dripping down and building up on the canvases. They have a texture that the ABCs lack. Untitled XYZ #2 is brimming with life. Every brushstroke is in motion. Splashes of color clash against one another. The canvas is populated with rushing winds, falling rain, winding rivers, a rabbit, and a coyote. It is an ecosystem in and of itself.

In Awakening, Moncho demonstrates his versatility by employing two opposing methods. The kaleidoscopic structures of the ABC series and the free-spirited visions of the XYZ series look like the works of two different artists, but together, they form a symphony of shape and color.

Awakening by Moncho

May 15–June 16

Gallery Sonder

3435 East Coast Highway

Corona del Mar, CA 92625