CFGNY, the innovative art and fashion collective that identifies as "vaguely Asian," is making waves this spring with a series of exciting exhibitions. Currently, they are featured in a group show at Pioneer Works, which delves into the production and representation of Asian fashion. The venue has been transformed into a unique space resembling a cardboard-lined shipping container, showcasing studio portraits taken in Ho Chi Minh City, a burgeoning fashion capital.
Later this month, CFGNY will unveil a new exhibition at Amant, highlighting collaboratively crafted ceramics and water clocks inspired by the No Name Painting Association, a collective that challenged the norms of Socialist Realism during China's Cultural Revolution. Additionally, for the upcoming Whitney Biennial, they have designed an architectural installation featuring translucent walls and stretched plastic, allowing visitors to glimpse ceramics and a whimsical soft caterpillar at its center.
CFGNY's name, which stands for "Concept Foreign Garments New York," also playfully morphs into various interpretations like "Cute Friend Group New York." This playful spirit is evident in their diverse artistic expressions, which encompass video, performance, sculpture, and architectural installations. Their work is characterized by a humorous and dynamic approach, encouraging a fresh dialogue around identity and culture.
In a time when discussions about Asian-American identity can often feel reductive, CFGNY offers a refreshing perspective that expands rather than confines. Member Ten Izu emphasizes that their project critiques superficial signifiers of authenticity while maintaining a lighthearted tone. The collective, consisting of Izu, Daniel Chew, and Tin Nguyen, emphasizes collaboration, with each member bringing unique backgrounds in studio art, filmmaking, and painting.
CFGNY's journey began in 2016 when Chew and Nguyen met in New York, later expanding their team with Izu and Kirsten Kilponen, who recently left to pursue a medical degree. Their collaborative spirit is evident in their various projects, including a fashion show at Japan Society and a bar operated in SculptureCenter's basement. They have explored themes such as digital exhaustion and the implications of mass production through their art.
The collective's workspace is a testament to their collaborative ethos, organized to accommodate multiple projects simultaneously. Currently, they are preparing for the Amant show, inviting 13 artists to contribute to their ceramic installations, reflecting their commitment to community and shared creativity.
As they experiment with ceramics for the first time, the process has been both challenging and rewarding. The resulting pieces embody their aesthetic of beauty in imperfection, showcasing a philosophy that values chance and resourcefulness. CFGNY's work ultimately fosters deeper connections among artists and their community, encouraging a dialogue that enriches their collaborative experiences.
