ever-present-art

2024 - present
Visual art collection

ever-present-art is a visual art project exploring the idea of living in the moment and noticing what surrounds us.

Inspired by the concept of Dao, the art pieces are designed to blend into the space. The pieces are ever-present, but never commanding attention. They’re only noticeable once you decide to pay attention to them.

The works are painted white, intended to be displayed against white walls. The designs themselves extend beyond the frame, creating a subtle three-dimensional presence that hovers between visibility and invisibility.

The frames are handmade from oak and plywood, while the artwork itself is sculpted from drywall mud.

The first piece in the installation, the Dao, was started in 2024 and completed in 2025. Measuring approximately 183 × 183 cm (6 × 6 ft), it depicts the Chinese character for Dao, often translated as “The Way”. The character itself is comprised of three separate characters — or radicals. When put together, it roughly translates as the way to balance is found within yourself.

More pieces are currently being developed for the ever-present-art collection. If you’re interested in the project or have any questions, please feel free to get in touch.

Large white wall sculpture of the Chinese character Dao, part of the ever-present-art collection, created with drywall mud on handmade oak and plywood frame.

Side view of the Dao artwork showing raised drywall texture and three-dimensional relief design.

Close-up angled side shot of the Dao visual art piece, highlighting depth and sculptural texture.

Wide side view of the Dao wall sculpture blending into a white interior space.

In-progress image of the Dao artwork with character outlines sketched on drywall surface before sculpting.

Partially completed Dao art piece with drywall mud applied to form the character on plywood panels.

Close-up of unfinished Dao sculpture showing drywall mud texture and developing strokes.

Wooden oak and plywood backing panels prepared as the frame for the Dao art piece.

Artist Jenny Halseid standing beside the large Dao wall sculpture during the creation process.

Behind the scenes photo of artist Jenny Halseid applying drywall mud to sculpt the Dao character.