Framing the beauty of nature and the East
‘Beyond the Yonder’
Text by Grace Ng
Nature has been a vehicle of artists throughout the ages to express themselves and has become the impetus of Abe Orobia and Rowin Obrero’s works for “Beyond the Yonder.” The landscape genre investigates a painting’s ability to record the authenticity of the real world and to communicate the artist’s experiences in nature. Yet, there is more to the artworks than simply firsthand interpretation. These are emotions, feelings, concepts that both artists delve upon to create their oeuvre. The works are influenced by the beauty and power of nature, and paradoxically, its evanescence.
Abe and Rowin believe, through the means of this exhibition, that it is possible to point out the importance of environmental soundness–through speaking to emotion and passion for nature. Both artists thinks that admiration for nature is inherent in all humans, and it is essential to re-gain greater awareness of the planet, understand it better, and take better stewardship of it.
“Beyond the Yonder” is at Galerie Joaquin U.P. Town Center located at 2/F Phase 2 U.P. Town Center, Katipunan Ave., Diliman, Quezon City. For more information, email [email protected].
‘In the Far East’
Art Anton’s “In the Far East” displays an array of impulses that are connected by the concept of a geographical space. The exhibit looks into urgencies defined by ethnicity, racial diversity, notions of nations, and identities tied to land and territory. From referencing cultural artifacts to depictions of mundane life, the collection looks into the meaning of the east as experienced and imagined by the artists. The works dwell on associations but at the same time manifest a form of othering. The valuation and understanding of the concept of an east signal the existence of contradictions, a thesis and anti-thesis, the east versus the west, a discussion on the relations of power which cannot be escaped with a theme loaded with social, political, and economic implications.
On the other hand, the idea of the East establishes cultural affinities and evokes sentimentalities of traditions and kinships imbuing romantic intimations of shared backgrounds. Labels and categorizations become instances to identify, relate, and develop tendencies and inclinations. It motivates one to sympathize, to recognize commonalities, and to create opportunities for solidarity.
Participating Artists are: Jo Balbarona, Jonathan Benitez, Marius Black, Richard Buxani, Ferninand Cacnio, Janos Delacruz, Pepe Delfin, Khervin Gallandez, Kish Javier, Rico Lascano, Otto Neri, Jomike Tejido, JC Vargas, and Yelcast.
Art Anton is located at G/F, S Maison, Marina Way, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City. For more information, email: [email protected].