I wanted to mention a small but fascinating exhibit I recently saw at the Metropolitan Museum of Art www.metmuseum.org.  It is the sculpures of a Cambodian artist by the name of Sopheap Pich.  Using indigenous materials he creates beautiful forms that are technically and esthetically most impressive.  An example of one of them is pictured below.  Along with his pieces is a fascinating video depicting the process.

Cambodian Rattan

The Sculptures of Sopheap Pich

February 23–July 7, 2013

Galleries 209, 249 & 251

"This exhibition presents ten works by the contemporary Cambodian artist Sopheap Pich (born 1971), who lives and works in Phnom Penh. Pich works principally in rattan and bamboo, constructing organic open-weave forms that are solid and ethereal, representational and abstract. Much of his work is inspired by elements of the human anatomy or plant life. His constructions combine his training as a painter with the spatial conceptualization of a sculptor, creating three-dimensional objects that are largely defined by their graphic character. Pich's art consciously embodies his memories of culture and place. The exhibition is installed in three spaces in the Asian galleries, including an integration into historical displays, and is part of the Museum's contribution to the New York–wideSeason of Cambodia."