"Tree Rings," photograph by Tony Hong

At least that is what Tony Hong did when he first decided to pursue art and couldn’t afford to buy proper paint, canvases and brushes.

This Los Angeles native’s m.o. is simple pen and ink on paper or pieces of wood.

However, his elaborate ink designs truly prove that he has met the challenge of this permanent and unforgiving medium, and is in no way “simple”.

Hong’s exhibition entitled, “Hourglass: Moments,” premieres Saturday at Smooth n Purdy Gallery located in Glendale.

The constant theme behind Hong’s pieces is trees. When asked about why they inspire his art, he responded that “trees are the largest living monuments on Earth. And the only things that don’t need constant revision and improvement are things in nature.”

Each of his detailed pen strokes helps to reveal nature’s organic beauty in a modern, thoughtful light.

The “Tree Rings” piece, featured in the picture above, is made up of lines no longer than a quarter of an inch long.

“In a sense, it’s a fairly simple piece, but with nothing but a vision for something greater in the end," said Hong. "I hope that it reflects that intent."

There will be 25 pieces featured at the gallery, exclusively in ink—some more abstract, some more graphic and some more rendered pieces—ranging in size from 12’’ x 12’’ to 4’ x 8’.

Smooth n Purdy, an interesting fusion of artwork, vintage store and beauty salon, is located at 3015 Glendale Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90039. The opening reception for "Hourglass" will run from 7-10 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 6.

Reach reporter Jess Cho here.