Carlos Vega's 'Faith Need Not Fear Reason' at Jack Shainman Gallery explores interfaith harmony through lead and stamps

Carlos Vega's exhibition 'Faith Need Not Fear Reason' at Jack Shainman Gallery runs through December 5, 2015. The show draws inspiration from a brief 12th-century period in Spain when Christian king Alphonso X 'The Wise', Muslim philosopher Averroes, and Jewish scholar Maimonides coexisted peacefully, fostering intellectual advancement. Vega, who grew up in the multicultural Spanish city of Melilla in North Africa, uses materials like lead and postage stamps to explore themes of historical harmony and contemporary relevance. He describes his lead work as requiring courage and precision, with some pieces taking up to two years to complete. The artist incorporates stamps as 'ambassadors of our aspirations,' sourcing them from flea markets and eBay. Vega's process involves both meditative planning and spontaneous creation, with this exhibition representing personal artistic growth. He produces only 15-20 works annually, aiming to make each piece 'a vessel for thought.' The artist reflects on questions of consciousness and spirituality, influenced by his study of these historical figures.