Under Spanish colonial rule, it was not uncommon for a fortunate few to be sent off to Spain for their studies. These were a fine mix of young men from affluent families, some of whom would later be known as the pillars that sparked our country’s claim for independence. Among these fellows were the likes of Juan Luna and Felix Hidalgo, visionaries that brought the beauty of the Filipino’s artistry to Spain. Though we have come a long way since then, Filipinos continue to make an impact in Madrid’s bustling art scene.

For David Kaufman, the subject is a familiar one as his award-winning thesis tackled how the works of Luna and Hidalgo explored the intersection of Filipino artistry and Spanish culture. In Manila, he owns Kaufman Stone, a leading natural stone supplier. He was one of the artists featured at the Filipino-owned art gallery Kate Contemporary’s just concluded exhibit “Endlessness.”

Through “Endlessness,” we see how abstract art takes its many forms to incite creativity in our minds and see beyond what is presented to us. In Kaufman’s works, every picture has a violent clash of bright colors and splashy strokes that form a vague yet resonant image. Slowly, as your eyes get drawn in, the image becomes clearer but leaves enough to leave your senses yearning. 

“This is a very big deal for me and for the gallery as well, as breaking into the Spanish art market is an incredible challenge,” says Kaufman. “We are so happy the Philippine community in Madrid is showing their full support.” The artist also expresses how this exhibit will, with hope, inspire local artists and creatives, who dream of having a place of their own on the international stage.

“Endlessness” ran from November last year to January 2025 at Kate Contemporary in Madrid, Spain.