CFGNY's 'Puddles into Pond' at Amant Explores Flux and Stasis

CFGNY, a New York-based collective of Daniel Chew, Ten Izu, and Tin Nguyen, presents 'Puddles into Pond' at Amant in New York through August 16, 2026. Known for researching 'vaguely Asian' aesthetics and bootleg identities, the group extends its exploration of multiple authorship through installation-based works made with friends. The first gallery features 'Landscape Composition' and 'Fuzzy Bridge' (all works 2026), a taxidermied simulacrum of nature with faux-fur bridge, vitrified clay vessels, and mirror pond on poplar supports, referencing the Wuming ('No Name') collective's apolitical plein air paintings from China's Cultural Revolution. CFGNY invited 13 friends to paint circular ceramic tiles, displayed on reflective pedestals like lotus leaves. Diane Severin Nguyen's tile includes clay headphones and cord in pink camo, referencing her performance 'War Songs' (2025–26). Artist sgp's pyramidal tile bubbles black ink. The second gallery presents 'System (Five Times)', five water clocks in forms like a monolithic tower, cardboard mannequin, and vinyl bag with caterpillars, keyed to rhythms of 1×, 1.3×, and 3× standard time, circulating fluid from a central tank with googly eyes. The exhibition contrasts isolated 'puddles' with interconnected 'pond', articulating tensions between flux and stasis, competitive confluence and constructive insularity.