Like that of many artists, Ross Capili’s journey in the arts began in the most typical way. In a family setup where success means pursuing a career in the medical or engineering field, his love for arts was often met with the idea of a life full of struggles, as his father would say. With his drive and passion at a young age, he was determined to prove everyone wrong. And after finishing his first masterpiece in 1974, he has never stopped putting his visions on his canvas, which led him to see places beyond the Philippines.
“In the ’60s, my elementary teachers always requested me to create designs using colored chalks on the blackboards,” Ross says. “I guess those small beginnings are sparks as to why I am still on fire up to this age of 64.”
After producing different collections and exploring new mediums of art, Ross now launches an exhibit documenting his colorful adventure in the arts. Aptly titled ‘“Iris,” the exhibit is a showcase reflecting his appreciation for the simple moments of beauty he experiences every day. A Greek word for “rainbow,” “Iris” is also a celebration of vivid hues, inviting everyone to see life through multicolored lenses.
“‘Iris’ is about the eye of the rainbow or the eye of God—the eye that sees through infinite beauty,” he says. “It leads to appreciating what I see in nature and what I hear from a beautiful music composition. The exhibit is God’s way of revealing the wisdom and creativity I always seek.”
As a self-confessed “contemporary narrative intuitive artist,” experimenting with new techniques and aesthetics is part of Ross’ creative process. That’s what he did with his latest exhibit. He crafted a revolving machine table that spins his base. His mediums of choice are resin, plexiglass, and stainless metal.
Ross’ imagination played a key role in working on his palette. Colors fly freely on his works as the motor swirls on his base, creating another painting in progress.
“My intuitive painting method gives more dimension,” Ross muses. “[The process starts] more on imagining, lining up the layers through my ‘mind’s eye.’ Then I approach the canvas without any sketch or scribble. My medium flows on its own and creates unexpected results.”
Ultimately, his show is an homage to the gift of sight and how it captures moments and experiences. A sight for sore eyes are his Irispieces with round canvas decorated with orbs and vibrant tie-dyes. His River Ripples Reflection and Rainbow Eyeworks are the perfect examples of him marrying art with nature as butterflies and plants floating in a sea of colors.
“I am an artist. My goal is to present an additional discovery rather than repeat my previous shows,” Ross says. “With untested mediums and technology at my disposal, I am excited to present the output on my upcoming show.”
Check out his masterpieces below:
'Rainbow Eye'
'Glowing In The Wind'
'Iris II'
'Helix Nebula'
“Iris” runs until March 18 at Altro Mondo Creative Space in Makati City.
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