Harman Projects is pleased to present Not too sweet, a solo exhibition by Bay Area-based artist Felicia Chiao. The exhibition marks Chiao’s third exhibition with Harman Projects.

When it comes to dessert, “not too sweet” can be the ultimate praise. While sweetness generally carries a positive connotation, the phrase hints at a sense of nuance, or an underlying appreciation for complexity. In this new series of paintings and drawings, Felicia Chiao considers the phrase’s application beyond the context of food.

The exhibition presents some of the artist’s most colorful work to date. The dreamy compositions are filled with vibrant patterns that expand beyond the toned paper and onto the photo mats containing them. Each piece is inhabited by Chiao’s recurring characters—an anonymous figure lacking defining features and a dark bean-shaped creature. At first glance, the pieces appear bright and fun. However, upon closer examination, less “sweet” moments emerge.

In Go outside, Chiao’s two central characters rest on a pier in an idyllic waterscape while below, a seemingly random assortment of items floats amongst a flock of geese. It’s unclear whether the objects were purposefully discarded by the central figure or if they floated in from unknown origins. As the sun shines down and an anthropomorphic cloud extends a comforting hand, the figure gazes out into the distance, creating a sense of ambiguity amongst the tranquil, sunny scene.

Regarding these less “sweet” or ambiguous moments, the artist writes “I don’t necessarily think that’s a bad thing. When your senses aren’t being overwhelmed by ‘sweetness’, then you are able to experience more nuanced flavors. I think this very colorful show has a lot of other ‘flavors’ that I invite the viewer to search for.”