Roel Obemio is paying homage to the late Fernando Botero through his exhibit, “My Tribute: A Botero-esque Journey.” The exhibition, ongoing at the Art Lounge Manila, features a collection of paintings and sculptures that showcase Obemio’s mastery of Botero’s distinctive style, while also infusing it with his own unique touch. 

Obemio, who has been inspired by Botero’s work since he was a child, says that he was deeply saddened by the artist’s passing last Sept. 15. 
Botero’s art is characterized by its voluptuous forms and exaggerated figures. He paints and sculpts people and animals in style that is both whimsical and monumental. His work is often described as “Boterismo.”

Botero’s figures are typically round and plump that gives a sense of strength and presence, but also a touch of humor. He used his figures to explore themes of power, corruption, and violence. He also finds beauty and joy in the everyday world, which is reflected in his many paintings of still life, landscapes, and family scenes. 

In the exhibit, Obemio explores the beauty and complexity of the human form through Botero’s signature style of voluptuous forms and exaggerated proportions. His paintings and sculptures depict a wide range of subjects, from everyday people to iconic figures from history and mythology. What unites all of Obemio’sworks, however, is his sense of whimsy and humor.

“When I heard the news that Botero has passed away, it saddened me, and that precipitates the idea of having a show to pay tribute to the artist who gave me so much inspiration. The difference between the two of us, is how Botero uses his practice as a means of critique, while I use volume as a narrative device to convey whimsy and fantasy, incorporating much geometric patterns into my works,” Obemio says. 

In addition to being a celebration of Botero’s legacy, the exhibit is also a showcase of Obemio’s artistic journey. Over the years, he developed his own unique style or “Obemismo,” characterized by its bold colors, geometric patterns, and playful sense of humor.

“Artists can be inspired by other artists, local or universal, but express your subjects, ideas, or narratives in a personal way. Give the audience a sense of understanding in an artist’s playground of imagination,” he says.

Obemio’s background as a commercial portrait artist, caricaturist, and effects animation artist has undoubtedly contributed to the uniqueness of his style. He believes art is not merely a product of creativity but also a therapeutic relief and a mirror reflecting social and personal experiences. 

“Art is a catalyst for revolution or peace,” he states. “It is not just a product of creativity, from emotion to express ideas, it can also be an act of therapeutic relief, it can be a simple appreciation of life’s beauty. It is a mirror of every social and personal experiences.”

Obemio also shares his advice to aspiring artists who are looking to establish themselves in the art world and find their own unique style.
“Practice, practice, and discover every creative process,” he said. “Learn to experiment, explore, and understand all the elements of art. Skill matters, be patient, take constructive criticism, always seek inspiration from the world around you.”

He also emphasizes the importance of learning from great masters of art, both past and present. “All these experiences and inspirations will eventually lead to the odyssey of your own unique style. ‘Good artists copy, great artists steal,’” he said, quoting Pablo Picasso. “What this means is that you should never be afraid to borrow ideas from other artists, but you should always put your own unique spin on them.”

Roel Obemio’s exhibit, “My Tribute: A Botero-esque Journey,” is a celebration of the late Fernando Botero’s legacy, as well as a showcase of Obemio’s own artistic journey. The exhibit is a blend of his own style with Botero’s, creating a new and exciting visual experience for viewers. It was a testament to Obemio’stalent and creativity, and is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who see it. 

“My Tribute: A Botero-esque Journey” runs until Oct. 31 at Art Lounge Manila The Podium, Mandaluyong.