A cosmic scene with angels in a surreal universe at the mu pan mandala exhibition.

Intricate Cosmos: Mu Pan’s Mandalas Unveil Surreal Universes in Vivid Detail at Hashimoto Contemporary

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Written by Sam Johnson

2026-09-29

, artist Mu Pan unveils a mesmerizing series of mandalas at his solo exhibition, Micro MUniverse, hosted by Hashimoto Contemporary. This is the highly anticipated showcase, where vivid artworks are inspired by the sacred geometry of traditional mandalas, yet amplified with narrative richness and otherworldly flair.

The Exhibition: A Surreal Journey

Drawing inspiration from a Chinese Buddhist adage that posits numerous lifeforms inhabiting a single drop of water, Pan’s works explode with life and color. His paintings depict a surreal blend of animals, humans, and plants that dance across the canvas in bizarre and occasionally unsettling configurations, sometimes tilting towards abstraction. In this collection, “18 Angels” features ethereal beings with black wings coexisting with skeletal forms, while “Burning Rabbit” portrays a mystical woodland eruption.

These pieces, mostly under a foot wide, are crafted with stunning detail. The exception is “4 Brutes,” a substantial two-foot panel that houses intricate expressions and delicate forms. “I want to focus on the concept of being small,” Pan explains, “because whatever is small actually contains way more than it appears. Each small image is like a drop of blood, and each drop of blood contains multiple universes.” The surreal art of this exhibition captivates visitors with its depth and complexity.

For another exploration of surreal visual narratives, discover how Endrit Marku transforms urban landscapes with imaginative architectural designs.

The event, Micro MUniverse, remains open in New York City until October 10. More is available on the artist’s social media.

A burning rabbit depicted in acrylic, surrounded by fiery elements.
“Burning Rabbit” (2026), acrylic on paper, 7 3/4 x 7 inches
Four brutish figures in vibrant colors, displayed on a wood panel.
“4 Brutes” (2026), acrylic on wood panel, 20 x 24 inches
A deer illustrated in an intricate acrylic composition on paper.
“Deer” (2026), acrylic on paper, 15 x 10 3/4 inches
A purple weasel in an abstract setting, created with vivid acrylics.
“Purple Weasel” (2026, acrylic on paper, 15 x 11 inches
Green hues dominate this abstract mandala, painted on paper.
“Green” (2026), acrylic on paper, 14 3/4 x 14 3/4 inches
A bear portrayed in detailed acrylic strokes, with a textured background.
“Bear” (2026), acrylic on paper, 15 x 13 inches

Source: thisiscolossal.com

Frequently asked questions

What is the theme of Mu Pan’s exhibition?

Mu Pan’s exhibition, Micro MUniverse, features vivid artworks inspired by the sacred geometry of traditional mandalas, amplified with narrative richness and otherworldly flair.

Where is Mu Pan’s exhibition currently located?

Mu Pan’s exhibition, Micro MUniverse, is hosted by Hashimoto Contemporary in New York City.

When does the Micro MUniverse exhibition close?

The Micro MUniverse exhibition remains open in New York City until October 10.