(SANTA ANA, CA) – Artist Ann Phong brings her abstract and thought-provoking paintings to life through juxtaposed layers of acrylic paint and found objects. Phong’s artwork depicting the relationship between humans and the environment is on display in the John Wayne Airport Community Focus Space from December 9, 2020 – January 14, 2021.
“Travelers at John Wayne Airport are sure to be inspired by the work of Ann Phong, who creatively uses her vivid paintings to encourage dialogue about our relationship with the environment,” said Orange County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Michelle Steel. “The next time you travel through John Wayne Airport, take a moment to view and admire her unique artwork.”
Several of Phong’s works are painted in a circle, echoing the shape of the earth, and incorporate discarded, upcycled objects such as old cell phones, plastic, and metal remnants. Phong reshapes and redesigns these objects to evoke images of the impact humans have on Mother Nature and the environment.
As she stated in the OC Register, “I put used parts into my art to bring awareness to my belief that the more convenient we make our lives, the more waste we create and the more carelessly we deplete the earth’s resources,” said Phong. “There’s a relationship between humans and nature. If we don’t balance it, we will ruin it.”
Born in Vietnam, Phong received a Masters in Fine Arts from California State University in 1995. She has actively participated in more than 150 solo and group shows in galleries and museums locally and internationally, including Los Angeles, Orange County, Houston, Bangkok, Seoul, Paris, Germany, and Tokyo.
Phong currently teaches drawing and painting at Cal Poly Pomona and has been invited to speak by many high schools, universities, and galleries on the subject of her unique work.
Phong’s exhibit may be viewed (pre-security) on the Departure (upper) Level near security screening areas in Terminals A, B, and C and on the Arrival (lower) Level adjacent to Baggage Carousels 1 and 4. To learn more about Ann Phong or view more of her artwork, visit www.AnnPhongArt.com.
For more information about JWA’s Art Programs, visit www.ocair.com/terminal/artexhibits/.