Renowned Filipino glass sculptor Ramon Orlina has recently unveiled his coffee-table book Visions in Glass, a 57-chapter tome as heavy as the glass sculptures he is celebrated for.

It offers a deep dive into Orlina’s 80-year-old life, his evolution as an artist, and his groundbreaking contributions to Philippine art. 

Orlina’s journey, as detailed in the book, reveals how he transformed recycled glass – often considered trash – into dazzling sculptures, now world-renowned. His transformation of glass from functional to artistic is a testament to his creative genius. 

A pioneer in glass sculpture

“No one in this country, the Philippines, Asia, or anywhere on the entire planet ever did what he did,” says the book author Cid Reyes. “Artists like Michaelangelo, Auguste Rodin, Henry Moore, and Constantin Brancusi never ventured into the world of glass sculpture as Orlina did. 

National Artist for Sculpture Napoleon Abueva praised Orlina for his trailblazing work, lauding him for breaking new ground, in a medium previously unrecognized for fine art. Orlina has singlehandedly elevated glass in the Philippines from something practical to something profound and artistic.

A lifetime of artistic innovation

Since his debut in 1976, Orlina’s work caught the attention of audiences both in the Philippines and abroad. His exhibits have graced the art scenes of the world’s most important cities across Asia, Europe, and the US. 

Orlina’s journey began unexpectedly. Starting as an architect, he transitioned into the world of art, finding his niche in the glass medium. It was a chance encounter with a supportive buyer of his very first paintings in glass that led him to embark on a journey that would redefine glass sculpture in the Philippines and beyond.

“It all started with unemployment,” Orlina recalls. “I just lost my job as an architect back then so I decided to experiment with painting on glass, something I was familiar with due to my architectural background. My first two glass paintings were initially intended for an exhibit. I was so nervous then about how they would be received. But to my surprise, a buyer showed interest and purchased both pieces.” 

Decades later, Orlina experienced a remarkable full circle-moment. One of the paintings he sold in 1975 eventually found its way to Germany. Years later, it was put up for auction and Orlina’s own daughter, who resides in Germany, purchased it, reclaiming her father’s artwork.

A collaborative effort

Visions in Glass is not just a collection of Orlina’s works. It is a comprehensive exploration of his life and career, made possible by a collaborative effort. Orlina’s wife, Lay Ann Orlina, served as the project head while the book’s writer Cid Reyes, and book designer Dopy Doplon ensured every detail of the artist’s journey was carefully documented.

The book features lavish photography of Orlina’s most significant works, from public and corporate installations to core intimate pieces. Each sculpture represents his deep connection to his craft, combining his architectural knowledge with the fluidity and grace of glass.

Through the use of light and transparency, Orlina’s sculptures play with perception, offering viewers a constantly changing visual experience.

“Within the pages of this massive book, you’ll witness the lifetime’s work of a great artist, a Filipino sculptor who broke new ground. Orlina discovered a previously untapped potential in glass, a material that had never been used by any other sculptor. This book offers an encyclopedic collection of his major works, from the early days of his career in the ’60s to the present. It’s a true homage to a Filipino artist who has brought great pride and honor to the Philippines,” said Reyes.

A legacy of inspiration

Visions in Glass is more than just an art book. It’s a testament to Orlina’s enduring talent and passion. It provides a comprehensive look at his contributions to both the Philippines and international art scenes, illustrating how one man’s vision turned an overlooked material into a medium for timeless beauty. 

Orlina’s legacy extends beyond his artwork. He has inspired countless artists and helped elevate the Philippines’ profile in the global art world. “The Orlina legacy will live on because of the achievement of this Filipino artist,” Reyes notes.

“The book started as a dream, an idea. Completing this book took 10 years of dedication. I wanted to capture the essence of my journey and the evolution of my art,” explains Orlina. “The support of my friends and colleagues has been invaluable. Art, for me, is creating more than just sculptures. It’s about self-expression and connection. This book is a compilation of my work over 50 years. I’m grateful to Cid Reyes, Dopy Doplon, my children, and especially my wife, Lay Ann Orlina, for their help. This book is my legacy.”

A must-read for art enthusiasts

Visions in Glass is a must-read for anyone interested in learning about Orlina’s life and groundbreaking career. It offers a glimpse into the world of glass sculptures and showcases the power of artistic innovation.

“Within the pages of this massive book, you will see the lifetime’s work of a great artist, of a great Filipino sculptor—a sculptor who broke grounds, who broke the barrier of material, who discovered glass that has never been used before by any other sculptor. What you’ll see in this book is an almost encyclopedic collection of the major works of Mr. Orlina, from the beginnings of his career back in the ’60s down to the present, where he’s even more active even in the autumn of his life. This book is a true homage to a great Filipino artist who has given great pride and honor to the Philippines. More than just being a collector’s item as a record of Mr. Orlina’s major achievements, we would like this book to be an inspiration to the Filipino youth. This book of Mr. Orlina will bring the young artists to greater heights,” says Reyes. 

Now in the ninth decade of his life, Orlina remains at the forefront of glass art, continuing to push boundaries and inspire the next generation of artists. His legacy, as outlined in the book, is not just as a Filipino artist but as a global trailblazer. His international accolades and awards have helped elevate the Philippines’ profile in the global art world, solidifying his status as a national treasure.