Art, Space, and Epoxy: Martin Eichinger at the Reno Tahoe International Art Show

by Martin Eichinger

At the Reno Tahoe International Art Show, I had the chance to showcase my latest work alongside some truly talented artists. Walking through the exhibition hall, it was inspiring to see the range of pieces—from sculpture to painting to craft—and to connect with artists who bring such unique perspectives to their work.

I joined Varvàra Fern on a panel discussion on “AI and Sculpture” earlier in the day, a sculptor with a strong narrative in her pieces. She dives into themes like fairy tales and trauma, blending her past experiences with mythic storytelling.

Karl Lansing also spoke, touching on the irreplaceable human element in art. He’s right: there’s something we deliver through our hands and our craft that AI just can’t replicate.

Showing the translucency of Amorphous Polymer to a visitor of our booth.

At my own booth, I displayed a new series of epoxy polymer sculptures, inspired by space and the James Webb Space Telescope. I call them “Amorphous Polymer,” and their abstract forms reflect the universe’s vastness.

The pieces are all two-sided, each face offering something different, a nod to the dynamic energy in space that I wanted to capture.

Left to right: The Edge of Nova, Nebula Explosion, Out of The Void

One piece, Nebula Explosion, captures the burst of a star factory, a scene of immense power and scale. It served as the inspiration for a large polycarbonate display that was suspended above the booth. I’ve always been drawn to working with polycarbonate and epoxy, tough and versatile materials that let me explore layers, textures, and new technologies.

A polycarbonate reproduction of Nebula Explosion for the Reno Tahoe International Art Show 2024

This shift from bronze to epoxy has been an interesting evolution for me. I displayed one bronze at RTIA just to show the history of my work, but I’m embracing this newer medium, especially in expressing the cosmic theme. There’s something about space that compels me—the mystery, the infinite scale—and I try to bring that into each piece.

We had a great show with strong interest from collectors and artists alike. Once this work returns to Portland, it’ll be back on display at Art at the Geode Gallery, where I hope it continues to invite people to explore and wonder about the universe.