Have you ever visited an art exhibit lately? The Philippine art world is buzzing with exciting ones that are worth exploring.
One of them is the Unified Artists Society’s latest exhibition, sponsored by Sinclair Paints. It brings together a unique range of creative perspectives that connect and inspire visitors.
The “Unified: One Vision Showcase” officially opened on October 19, 2024, at the picturesque Nuzen Art Gallery. Overlooking the stunning Taal Volcano, the gallery hosted a curated selection of unique and thought-provoking paintings.
Featured artists included Alfon Casabuena, Anne Margaret Villanueva, Eleanor Oberio, Gary Montenegro, Isa Lan, Jonna Fe Custodio-Adraque, Minda M. Sta. Maria and Rey Adolfo.
The artworks range from luminous hues of sunrise, whimsical florals, expressive and intriguing portraits, and minimalistic abstracts from recycled objects. Each piece is a visual delight, sparking thought and meaningful discussion.
Below are some featured artworks available for purchase, along with the artists’ statements that provide deeper insight into their creative processes and inspiration behind their evocative paintings.
Blinded by Love by Alfon Casabuena
Size: 24″ x 24″
Medium: Oil in Canvas
Year: 2024
Alfon’s blinded by love is about being consumed by emotion to the point where you can’t see or think rationally about your decisions. This haunting mixed media piece beautifully captures the deep longing for connection, inviting viewers to reflect on their relationships.
I Bloom and I Thrive for I Paint my Scars with Gold by Anne Margaret Villanueva
Size: 24″ x 24″
Medium: Mixed Media on Canvas
Year: 2023
Inspired by the Japanese art of Kintsugi, meaning “joining with gold”, the painting is a testament to the beauty that emerges from healing and resilience, where every scar becomes a story of strength and transformation, mended with the brilliance of gold.
Passion by Minda M. Sta. Maria
Acrylic on Canvas
24″ x 24″
2024
Painting once again from the heart, this piece of a Passion plant is an anticipated project that I just had to create reminiscent of one my father planted in our backyard. It evokes memories from my childhood of happy times of outdoor games, barbeques, and time with family and friends.
MRT Station by Jonna Fe Custodio – Adraque
24″ x 24″
Mixed Media on Canvas
2024
Taking the train reduces the time and costs spent on travelling, thus increasing the productivity of workers and businesses. Walking to and from stations promotes fitness and overall health, leading to healthier and happier citizens.
Mood Swing #2 by Gary Montenegro
Size: 24 x 24 inches
Medium: Acrylic, Plaster Paint and Collage on Gallery Wrapped Canvas
Year: 2024
In this work, I explore the depths of my inner turmoil through the medium of relief painting, using black as my only color. The absence of hues mirrors the emotional void that often accompanies anxiety and melancholia, while the raised textures bring forth a tangible sense of the overwhelming weight these struggles impose. The images I conjure on the canvas are reflections of the mental battles I face—fragments of tension, conflict, and darkness.
By stripping away color, I aim to convey the starkness of my emotional reality, where light and hope seem distant. Each stroke, each raised surface represents the layers of unresolved tension, as well as the constant interplay between feeling trapped and yearning for release. My hope is that these works evoke empathy and understanding of the often invisible but deeply felt struggles of mental health.
Eco-Vision by Rey Adolfo
Size: 24″ x 24″
Medium: Acrylic and Oil on Canvas
Year: 2024
The Warrior Within by Eleanor Oberio
Size: 24 x 24 inches
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Year: 2024
My artwork features a blend of gold and turquoise, complemented by symbolic elements that convey the themes of protection and renewal.
In a world filled with self-doubt, I hope that this piece inspires courage and perseverance.
I also want to remind my viewers that they are not alone and that there is a higher power they can turn to for guidance and help.
Finally, I created this piece not just to be seen, but to be felt deeply, reminding each viewer to keep going despite the ups and downs of life.
The Sunrise @ Bajo de Masinloc by Isa Lan
Size : 24 x 24
Medium : Acrylic on Canvas
Year : 2024
Isaiah 60: 22 (In God’s perfect timing)
The sun would always fascinate me as it displays these magical colors and hues during its morning glory or as it sets on the horizon.
This hobby of capturing the sun’s magnificent shows began when my hubby gifted me with a point and shoot cam in 2011.
Every time we go out of town or visit resorts, I would get up at 5:00 am and stalk the sun as it rises and wait for the golden hour as it falls. Little did I know, that I would someday begin to paint and use these photo captures as one of my subjects. It suddenly dawned on me, how God purposely designs our life from our interests and experiences. Becoming a photo hobbyist in 2011 was probably God’s way of preparing me for this newfound journey in the world of arts and painting.
Victor Hugo once said, “To love beauty is to see light.” Let these pieces brighten your path and inspire your own unique story.
Experience the Unified: One Vision Showcase at the Nuzen Art Gallery in Tagaytay until November 15, 2024.
For further inquiries, you may reach out to the Nuzen Art Gallery.
Email: nuzenartgallery@gmail.com
Mobile Number: +63 951 009 8310
Location: Nuzen Art Gallery, Miara Events Place, Mendez crossing, Tagaytay-Nasugbu Hwy, Tagaytay City 4120