There’s a mysterious connection between the elements of the universe and the cosmic or physical forces that govern them. Recurring natural structures, from sprawling galaxies to the teeming chaos of underwater ecosystems, suggest a hidden order beneath the apparent randomness. Particles in perpetual motion find harmony when viewed through a broader lens, revealing a continuum that has inspired both spiritual and scientific inquiry. This alignment of forces is echoed across traditional philosophies and beliefs, from the Chinese notion of Dao to the Greek dictum “Panta rei.” Spanning East and West, these ideas eventually gained a foothold in the modern era through the lens of quantum physics, offering a rational glimpse into the infinite.

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Howardena Pindell’s decades-long career seems to be an effort to map and capture this secret order of the universe. Her enigmatic works revolve around what remains unseen and unexplained, blending abstract intuition with the rigor of scientific observation. Moving fluidly across media, her practice often feels divinatory, combining elements of mystery with a precision that recalls the logic of natural systems.

A career survey, now on view at Garth Greenan Gallery, provides an invaluable look at Pindell’s rich and diverse body of work. She stands........

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