Art Notes: Working on Quadrata 04

As featured in a news post, I joined a Group Exhibit in April 2026 and was finally able to have a chance to present one of the geometric artworks I do in Art Deco GeoMetrica. The work I exhibited was Quadrata 04, which it uses layers of Bristol paper to give a sense of physical space to the ink drawings.

I do my art in the same way I start on a floor plan—with a penciled grid to provide a basis and reference to the work. Since the artwork has layers, having the grid allows me to predict with accuracy the spacing and symmetry to ensure reasonable precision to the drawing. It does not need to be machine-precise in this case, as I think it’s part of the process to give human accuracy to the grid. It lends a more realistic and less machine-made look to it.

Once a grid is drawn (using good old triangles and a t-square ruler), the pattern drawing begins. I do not have a set idea of the artwork when I draw—I like the idea of emergence in my works so I am just as surprised as the viewer on how it comes out in the end. I often start drawing the perimeter patterns first, then go “inwards” slowly over the hours (or days) that it takes to complete the work.

I use various line weights to produce complexity in the work. The workhorses of my pens are the thinnest fineliners, the unipins 0.05 and 0.03. For borders and thicker lines, I use the 0.5 and 1.2 unipins.

Once all the inkworks are completed, it is time to assemble the work. Cutting with a box cutter is a surprisingly precise activity that needs concentration, so it is very relaxing and meditative to do this part. Once everything is in the proper sizes, adhesives are applied (usually art-grade double sided tape) and the work is framed.

For Quadrata 04, it takes about 3 days to complete (since I just do it around the time that general housework and other commitments allow), and far longer for other works if they are larger or more intricate.

You can watch how I draw them in my social media accounts or see the other artworks in the group exhibit over at 1159 Creative Space’s Facebook Page.

"I like the idea of emergence in my works so I am just as surprised as the viewer on how it comes out in the end. I often start drawing the perimeter patterns first, then go 'inwards' slowly over the hours (or days) that it takes to complete the work."