Exhibit review: Edward Setina: Dark Energy/Dark Matter at Centraltrak in Dallas

by Lydia Regalado of THE Magazine

Much like the multilayered dimensions of the human psyche, so is Mr. Setina's work and process.

Edward Setina's solo show at the artist residency Centraltrak refers to the physics phenomenon that 95 percent of matter and energy is unseen. The idea of the "unseen" is still such an enigma that it is referred to as "dark." In other words, more is unknown than is known. Mr. Setina's title alludes to this concept as it relates to the philosophy and psychology of the self.

The nature of emotion, perception, and memory are questionable, yet Dark Energy/Dark Matter attempts to delve into these complex concepts to illustrate this idea as it pertains to self-discovery. Using a variety of media in works that have been created over a two-year time period, Mr. Setina has chosen to reveal a story of psychological mythology as it pertains to the self. A figure resembling Mr. Setina appears in his works, but is it really his figure or the "dark" notion of his self? If thought provocation is Mr. Setina's motive, his large-scale works such as To Your Scattered Bodies Go and Disambiguation invite the viewer to peel away the layers of symbolism and observe the methodology of his creations. Much like the multilayered dimensions of the human psyche, so is Mr. Setina's work and process. His topographic approach to painting is evident in his studies, which are also on display and beautifully framed.

Trained as a sculptor, Mr. Setina's carpentry details of round cornered panels soften the lines of the work and also lend itself to the sometimes ethereal illusion that the works are floating in space. Taking the idea of topography and landscape further, Terres Onconnues presents a striking still life that symbolizes the mythological narrative of navigating a journey into unchartered territory. The idea behind the works can be intense; however, Mr. Setina's video installations illustrate his lighter side and points to the hilarious ridiculousness that comes with deep introspection. Guitarmageddon is a painful slap in the face of the rock star persona, while Model (Looking Good), subtly shocks yet entertains the viewer. How true this scientific sentiment of dark energy and dark matter resonates as one pursues the path of psychological reflection depends on the viewers' state of mind. Once the process of peeling multiple layers begins, how much do we really know about ourselves, or anything for that matter?

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