Tortured Neon

The tortured neon series is a visceral representation of the controlled chaos that is the human experience. The frenetic twists and turns that are the hallmark of Shen’s work amplify the tension between the gas and electricity that coexists within the glass vessel. Shen further heightens the tension by introducing trace amounts of a secondary gas. The interplay between the competing gasses is most evident when the piece is first illuminated, as they fight for dominance before eventually settling into a beautifully hued state of homeostasis.