Aura Elite Magazine (UK): Ronna Lara-Bes and Her Koi Fish Paintings
March 17, 2016 March 17, 2016 / Jennifer Bichara	/ Leave a comment
My seventh contribution – Aura Elite Magazine Issue 7 (Jay-R Cover Philippines King of R&B) "Ronna Lara-Bes and Her Koi Fish Paintings."
Thank you Dee Sanchez, Chief Editor of Aura and thank you Ronna Lara-Bes for allowing me to showcase your Koi fish paintings.
In the field of traditional art, Ronna Lara-Bes work has been described as possessing clean lines and shades and having that tri-dimensional effect. Her choices of mediums are of oil, acrylic and watercolour for paintings and resins and 3D-printing for sculptures. She shifts from one to another to keep her approach constantly fresh, yet maintaining her unique artistic identity. This is yet another manifestation of her multi-faceted nature in which one common denominator among all her work is that they revolve around artistic pursuits such endeavors have dominated her life for as long as she can remember.
Ronna is a graduate of Architecture from the University of Santo Tomas. Her professional life is dedicated to creativity and the teaching of it. Her early years saw her as a fashion designer; then, as an architectural visualizer, product designer, 3D animator, photographer and visual effects artist. She is currently a member of the faculty in Feati University's School of Fine Arts, teaching Photography & Digital Arts Process.
In November 2014, she held a successful solo show at the Art Elements Gallery, and it showcased her artistic range. Her works had been exhibited in the Philippines, Bacolod, Rome, Vienna & Leeds. They have graced homes and other spaces across eight countries and four continents.
Koi fish paintings series of Ronna plays an important role in the World of Feng Shui. Feng Shui is the art of creating a healthy balance of our lives and environment that surrounds us. In Chinese "Feng" is wind and "Shui" is water. These are the two natural elements that flow and circulate freely on earth, creating a life energy known as 'Chi' that shapes our living environment. This is definitely a good choice of gift to give a love one to bring abundance and wealth in their lives.
Ronna Lara-Bes and Her Good Luck Koi Fish Paintings
December 21, 2015 March 16, 2016 / Jennifer Bichara	/ Leave a comment
Koi fish are a common symbol in both Chinese culture and Feng Shui depicted on artworks, tattoo art and fashion to interior design. Koi Fish are ornamental varieties of domesticated pet carps that are kept in outdoor ponds or water gardens. They are a very common theme for Chinese traditional art, and also carry significant artistic meanings in Asian cultures including the Philippines.
Many of the characteristics of the koi symbolize several lessons and trials individuals often face in life. The koi fish has a powerful and energetic life force, demonstrated by its ability to swim against currents and even travel upstream. Some of the characteristics associated with the koi include: good fortune, success, prosperity, longevity, courage, ambition and perseverance.
Ronna Lara-Bes and her Koi Fish Series
Koi fish paintings series of plays an important role in the World of Feng Shui. Feng Shui is the art of creating a healthy balance of our lives and environment that surrounds us. In Chinese, "Feng" is wind and "Shui" is water. These are the two natural elements that flow and circulate freely on earth, creating a life energy known as 'Chi' that shapes our living environment. They teach us to develop a "Positive" attitude. In times of adversities, keep looking ahead and walk towards the sun and you will never see the dark part of your shadow.
Tancho Uno 18″x24″ Acrylic on Canvas Part of the Tancho Series
Infinity – 168 Kois
Red, Black and Gold 12″x12″ Acrylic on Canvas
These paintings were done by Ronna Lara-Bes who I featured here. It is easy to see how her treatment of koi differs greatly from the Asian styles we are accustomed to. Color is one of the areas of departure and she incorporates a more ingenious pallet. Her color compositions are vibrant to represent the fish as well as the patterns they create. Their concealment below the water's surface and pond portray the hidden depths they reveal. Ronna has tried to express these qualities in her paintings and has succeeded in developing a stylized method to increase visual impact. These paintings are positively beautiful to look at and their reinterpretation of a time-honored subject makes them all the more compelling.
Koi Self-Portrait
Blue Frolic 8b 21.75″x18″ Acrylic on Canvas
Blue Frolic 8a 21.75″x18″ Acrylic on Canvas
Ronna's good luck koi fish artworks are the perfect gift for Christmas. She can do small, medium and big koi paintings depending on your required budget. Please help support a dedicated, hardworking artist and her continued growth through the purchase of her beloved koi's for you, family, or friends.
Frolic II 9.75″x11.75″ (25cmx30cm)
Koi In Summer #3 12″x12″ Acrylic on Canvas
Koi In Spring #3 12″x12″ Acrylic on Canvas
Flowing Eight #2 18″x24″ Acrylic on Canvas
Ronna Lara-Bes is a graduate of Architecture from the University of Santo Tomas. Her professional life is dedicated to creativity and the teaching of it. Her early years saw her as a fashion designer; then, as an architectural visualizer, product designer, 3D animator, photographer and visual effects artist. She is currently a member of the faculty in Feati University's School of Fine Arts, teaching Photography & Digital Arts Process.
First Koi of 2015 Flowing Nine Series 1 30″x20″ Acrylic on Canvas
Latest Koi Fish work
The Clear Path Series Each: 48″x12″ Acrylic on Canvas
Koi in Winter #2 12″x12″ Acrylic on Canvas
Koi Duo 12″ x 10″ Acrylic on Canvas 2015
Dancing In A Circle 24″ Diameter Acrylic on Canvas
RONNA'S FIXATIONS EXHIBIT
Everybody invited to attend Ronna Lara-Bes' second solo exhibit titled "Fixations," at Galeria de las Islas, 3rd Floor, Silahis Center, Intramuros this coming January 14, 2016.
This exhibit is a showcase of the artist's ongoing interest in various art forms. Refusing to be boxed in to a single subject or medium, she embarked on several explorations of materials until she conquered them. In Fixations, Ronna Lara-Bes presents her art journey in three streams: Waterworld, Kalakal Boys and Questions.
Waterworld is a continuation of her fascination with Koi fish. She depicts these beautifully energetic creatures as seemingly floating in solid backdrops of brilliant red or among orb-shaped stones. She does not paint light reflections, as others would often do, to bring the viewer under the surface of the water, as if they, too, are swimming among them. Actress and Congresswoman Lucy Torres-Gomez, upon seeing her paintings described her Koi's as having that porcelain look, smooth and translucent.
Kalakal Boys is an homage series for the (mostly) urban occupation that poor Filipinos engage in. Money may be tight for these men but they do not shirk from the hard toil of honest work. I have employed clean lines and color to the figures to imply the nobility of what they do, in spite of the fact that they are often exposed to the elements and the grime that comes along with it.
Questions is dominated by mixed-media works, large-scale paintings and sculptures. Here, the artist explores various issues of the human psyche both inwards and outwards.
Her works had been exhibited in the Philippines, Bacolod, Rome, Vienna and Leeds. They have graced homes and other spaces across eight countries and four continents.
All images supplied by the artist.
Art Gallery: Khristina Reed Manansala | Pinay.com
Filipina Artist Khristina Manansala quit her corporate job to follow her grandfather's footsteps. Her paintings are mostly centered on religious subjects.
Source: Art Gallery: Khristina Reed Manansala | Pinay.com
Realistic Abstracts by Benjamin Cruz
December 3, 2015 March 16, 2016 / Jennifer Bichara	/ 2 Comments
Benjamin Cruz is a award winning Filipino painter who has the ability to dream and create new worlds. Mr. Cruz's transforms his pieces to new heights with this concept of manipulating dimensionality. The artist takes inspiration from the landscapes around him that goes way beyond realism.
Compositions and painting techniques are the tools Mr. Cruz's uses to transform his art. His subtle shift results in a piece that is complex and layered. The same way that life is multifarious and multidimensional. His transparent layers of acrylic in unique ripple effects. Create landscapes that appear to dissolve into the mist. Results in a mysterious surface. That begs the viewer to come closer and explore the intricacies of the painting.
Mr. Cruz's art is in the category of abstract realism. Abstract realism is difficult to explain because it is the blend of two opposing styles of art.
Abstract art without any combining rudiments and has no reference to real objects. It is only concerned with the colors, lines, shapes and rhythms that create the artwork. In a manner, abstract art is art without a concrete and physical construct to work from.
Title: "Building"
Med: Acrylic on canvas
Yet, realistic art aspires to create realistic impressions of real objects. Realistic painting attempts to show what the eyes actually see, including human hardships. This goal of realistic accuracy includes color choice, subject matter, and brush strokes. The painting should represent the subject. Viewers should know what they are looking at.
The goal of abstract realism involves using abstract painting techniques. Through the use of distorted images by implementing impressionist, surrealistic and expressionist techniques. To make the painting recognizable, somewhat blurred and distorted.
His art form sits between realistic depiction of the world. Including, non-representational abstraction as the main subject. They are no longer two separate opposing styles. But they come together to strengthen each other.
Mr. Cruz aims to bring the elements of our consciousness that is not evident in plain sight into the light. His desire for the comfort and skill of the real and the need of those abstract aesthetics.
Ben Cruz waiting for the announcement for 2015 Southeast Asian Painting of the Year.
A former graphic designer of the Business Times, Mr. Cruz, won the coveted UOB Painting of the Year 2015 (Singapore) award for his acrylic on canvas titled "Building." Organized by the United Overseas Bank last Nov 4, the painting mixes realism and abstraction to present images of Singapore landmarks under large, textured swirls of earthly colours. Award winning piece points out something that already exists. In its final form. It is symbolic of Mr. Cruz's impression of Singapore, where skyscrapers dominate.
Ben Cruz, born in 1954, is a multi awarded visual artist both in the Philippines and Singapore. Mr. Cruz has completed a degree in advertising and is concentrating on painting realist abstracts in his retirement.
**A Selection of Ben Cruz's Art Masterpieces***
(Click the thumbnails below to enlarge the artwork, and then swipe or use the arrows to scroll)
"High Heel" 3ft x 4ft Acrylic on Canvas
"Pabahay bato? Acrylic on Canvas
"Skyway" (2013)
"TANSUN@company" 3ft x 4ft (2012)
"Inahin" 2ft x 2ft Acrylic on Canvas
Mga ETCHURA ni Maria
"GUBAT" Private Collection
"maBUWAYAng bagong kasal" (3ft x 4ft)
San Felipe, Zambalez
Images supplied by the artist.
Meet Sky De Leon Child Prodigy Painter
November 27, 2015 March 16, 2016 / Jennifer Bichara	/ 5 Comments
Artist at work who can paint one painting a day.
A rage to master as observed in some precocious young artists may help define extreme visual creativity in spotting artistic brilliance in children. Among all child prodigies there is one particular trait that children share: passion about their interest – whether it is in painting, sports, math, science or even dance.
Despite his young age, Ram Skyler De Leon or "Sky" has already distinguished himself as a professional artist. Sky can make one oil painting a day, his stress buster after school. "I am passionate about art!" he enthuses. Shy is an artist who has an obsession to master his craft, devouring art books and religiously studying with local experts.
"It's a great honor to be an artist. Art for me is not just a hobby but a passion. Painting became my escape and my inspiration to do well in school. We all live in a busy and complicated world but art simplifies it. God gave me this wonderful gift and my family has supported me throughout my journey in art. I hope to create more and better paintings or works of art in the future."~Sky De Leon
Looking at kid's compositions, it won't take you much to conclude that he comprehends far beyond his age. His reflection about art, his brushstroke and mature demeanor across the canvas at such a tender age is certainly a gifted realist. His elements of composition, color, space and movement are handled with greater sensitivity to detail.
The fifteen-year old boy's paintings are no child's play for this 2nd year high school honor student from La Salle Greenhills who started art as early as six years old.
Ram Skyler de Leon and Master Artist, Fernando Sena at Walls Gallery
He first studied art basics with acclaimed "Fernando Sena" in 2010 and had several exhibits through him, in venues including Philippine Heart Center, Eastwood Cinema in Libis, and Walls and Art Gallery in Quezon Avenue while contemporary Filipino artist "Philip Badon" has also helped in shaping Sky's art.
His comprehensive art education and as well as his exposure to numerous art forms, styles and techniques, finds niche in realism and impressionism through L'arc En Ciel Gallery who is now Sky's second home in art – a leading art gallery in the country under the tutelage of Elaine Herbosa curator of the L'Arc en Ciel in the South. Sky has also been accepted to the Florence Academy of Art in Italy for next year's workshop – first Filipino child to be accepted in this prestigious academy.
Sky with Elaine Herbosa, President and Curator of L'Arc En Ciel Art Gallery.
He wields a brush like an art master. His skill in the impressionist still life is a sight to behold – his copper vases, sunflowers and cherries on white silk organza pop to life with his sophisticated strokes. Sky's oils in bold colors have unending appeal.
Sky was not like most children as he found solace frolicking with vivid colors and various subjects in his paintings. Sky is an artist whose art are often self-directed, preferring art to other forms of entertainment. Sky believes that creating art in general is not an activity but a way of life for him. It teaches him discipline, courage to go beyond his limits, and to aim for perfection for whatever interest him.
"Still life teaches you to find the beauty in simple household objects and portraiture makes you enjoy the perfection of the in perfection," ~Sky De Leon
Image credit via John Rene Fernandez
Sky has been publicly exhibiting his works since he was 11 years old, starting at the Bahay Tsinoy Museum in Intramuros. He had a solo auction exhibit for the 10th anniversary of The Palms Country Club in Alabang in 2013, where part of the proceeds went to a charitable institution. He has joined Art in the Park two years in a row, ManiaArt 2015, and exhibits in Bellevue Hotel, Tagaytay Highlands, ArtistSpace, Ayala Museum and at L'Arc en Ciel Atelier and Gallery in Ayala Alabang Village.
His rare talent has been featured as Artist of the Week in Solar TV's morning show, interviewed in other TV programs, and featured in newspapers and magazines. Sky is, after all, just a typical, well-rounded extraordinary talented kid with supportive non-artist parents. His oil paintings have evolved into a more mature depictions and advanced techniques.
"I love what I am doing. It's very satisfying, seeing a finished work when before there was just a blank canvas," ~Sky De Leon
***A Selection of Sky's Masterpieces***
(Click the thumbnails below to enlarge the artwork, and then swipe or use the arrows to scroll.)
15 Year Old "Sky De Leon" Art Prodigy reaches for the Sky
This sculpture by Ronald Castrillo was made in collaboration with Sky's painting.
The Whimsical Art of Buhay Mendoza
November 20, 2015 March 16, 2016 / Jennifer Bichara	/ Leave a comment
Whimsical art is an effervescent and playful that is unique, out-of-the-ordinary, or fanciful. This type of art is commonly associated with children's book illustrations and fairy tale art, which aims to lifts the spirit and makes you happy. Whimsical artwork might be characterized by its color, design, line, or subject matter. Whimsical paintings are usually bright and colorful, and their subject matter is sometimes humorous.
Many artists identify with being called "whimsical" because of their philosophy. They want to create images that are playful, cheerful, and carefree which aims to make the viewer smile or laugh, or look at the world around them in a different way. A whimsical artist is a person with great imagination, very intuitive and a child at heart.
Dwight-Buhay or simply "BUHAY" is a Filipino artist who turns everyday people into whimsical figures. BUHAY's whimsical art is a childlike glimpse into his over-active imagination. These creatures are endearing yet enigmatic, and the same time – odd, crisscrossing the threshold between fantasy and reality. Many of his whimsical creatures contain a quiet tranquility, thoughtful in their own odd ways. His art is restrained, still, and yet, meditative in nature. They often bear a telling gaze, as if they can see something that we don't. Their eyes are always wide and their lips are sealed.
Buhay's methodological execution brings this idea to the audience even when the psychological aspects may remain covert to the viewer. The means whereby all of us arbitrate the world in which we live are intellectual and emotional. An intellectual response is learned; whereas emotion is inherent and Buhay's work is a trajectory of both characteristics, and through these it brings the honesty of life from his paintings.
Whimsical Art By Buhay Mendoza – Tittle : The Golden Heart Bearer . Oil on Canvas. (61 x 61 cm ) 2014.
He distinctly transfers his subjects into canvases to tell a story in hopes that they will touch others too. Though Buhay is primarily self-taught, he began to develop his painting skills and further enhanced his overall artistic abilities through the guidance of renowned artists. He draws inspiration from Impressionist masters such as Edouard Monet, Edgar Degas, Paul Cezanne, Frederic Bazille and Morgan Weistling. His primary source of inspiration; however, lies in the wing of renowned artist Sir Fernando B. Sena who he had formal training with.
The artist uses a variety of mediums in his artwork including oils, acrylics, watercolour and pastels. His primary subjects are the human figures; it fascinates him to express a person's character through lines, lights and shadows. His genre is more on Expressionism, Impressionism and Realism.
Buhay as he's known by his contemporaries from Tuesday Group and Art Association of the Philippines as a hardworking artist with the passion for the craft that immerses deeply as he began to embrace the life of being a full-time artist. Buhay simply believes that while one doesn't always begin one's working life as an artist, one can nevertheless be born an artist. As in his case, it sometimes takes years of various jobs before one attains the possibility of dedicating life to art. As a youth, survival priorities barred even the thought of artistic inclination.
Buhay has made Deparo, Caloocan City his home a move from his native town – Calauag, Quezon. He worked as a Graphic Artist/ Illustrator for 5 years in which he worked on mock ups, backdrops, and miniature props for movies and commercials. Currently, he has a studio in Caloocan where his creative mind works and flourishes. You can view his artwork in Art Verite Gallery in Ayala Museum.
HIGHLIGHTS OF BUHAY'S CAREER
July 28, 2015 – Fourth Solo Show at Art19B Gallery, Blue Ridge QC
December 20, 2014 – Third Solo Show at An Binh Gallery (Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam)
October 2013 – Manila Art 2013, The Fort Tent
August 13, 2013 – Second Solo Show at Gallery Nine SM Megamall
October 2012 – Manila Art 2012 at SMX MOA
August 9, 2010 – First Solo Show at Enterprise Building, Ayala Makati
***A Selection of Buhay Mendoza's Art Masterpieces***
Whimsical Art By Buhay Mendoza – The Gentleman, Mixed Media 20 x 16, 2014
Whimsical Art By Buhay Mendoza – Angel of Love Oil, on Canvas, 2015
Whimsical Art By Buhay Mendoza – Legend of Calauag, Oil on Canvas, 2015
Whimsical Art By Buhay Mendoza – Gatito Almirante, Mixed Media 24 x 24, 2014
Whimsical Art By Buhay Mendoza – Tittle : Blossom . Oil on canvas. (76 x 53 cm) 2014.
Whimsical Art By Buhay Mendoza – Aquarium of Human Morality, Oil on Canvas 24 x 48, 2014
Whimsical Art By Buhay Mendoza – The Messenger, Oil on Canvas 20 x 16, 2013
Whimsical Art By Buhay Mendoza – Larong Buko, Oil on Canvas, 2015
Whimsical Art By Buhay Mendoza – Trust Your Journey, Oil on Canvas 24 x 30, 2015
Whimsical Art By Buhay Mendoza – 1944 , Oil on Canvas 24 x 36, 2015
Whimsical Art By Buhay Mendoza – The Harbinger, Oil on Canvas 30 x 30, 2012
Whimsical Art By Buhay Mendoza – Wednesday Addams, Mixed Media 20 x 16, 2015
Whimsical Art By Buhay Mendoza – Alienation, Oil on Canvas 36 x 24, 2015
Whimsical Art By Buhay Mendoza – I Come in Piece, Oil on Canvas 30 x 30, 2015
The Art and Work of Connie Cabalar
Maria Conception Talinao, aka Connie Cabalar is what you call a traditional realist visual artist. Her goal is to be as realistically as she can be on color choices, subject matter, and what type of brush strokes she applies to the canvas. It is her aim to represent the art subject clearly so that viewer would know what they are looking at. Her choice of medium is in charcoal, pastel, acrylic, and oil. Her fave's are in portraiture, landscape art, figures, still life, and sometimes, she dabbles in abstract.
Here is an introduction to the artist where Connie shares the story of her art journey, artistic voice and lastly, her inspiration:
Connie was born in Makati City on December 8, 1976 but grew up in Sta. Ana, Taguig City. Her art beginnings started for her at an early age. Born out of poverty, she used art with the intention to divert her mind from hunger and the realities of a hard life.
She would have given anything to get into Fine Arts in college but like most other Filipino youngsters whose families faced financial setbacks; she had to give her dream up and follow a different path. She then enrolled at the Pasig Catholic College and took a course in Business Administration major in computer management. While in college, she had to work to support her studies and slowly forgot about her love of art.
But in 2011, art came creeping back to her— badgering her to give it one more try. She was one of those people who have always identified themselves as an artist. So no matter how hard they try to go the normal route of what's life expect them to do, they will always find a way to do what they are passionate about.
Her hardest challenge is not getting the formal training and education in fine arts. However, at the same time; it serves as an inspiration. Every time there's a new trial for her, she is pushed to excel. Whenever she is faced with another blank canvas, there's always that dare to come up with something better than her previous work. In the back of her mind, she feels the fulfillment of finishing the painting with a sense of pride which inspires her even more.
Different artists may have different sources of fulfillment in what they do but for her, the greatest reward is when she sees and hears people appreciate her work after hours and effort that she invested in her craft are all worth the time.
Connie is living her dream. However, her ultimate wish is to be recognized for her art and would ultimately like to inspire others to follow their dream. She said, when she becomes an established artist, she wishes to give back through outreach works and free workshops. Because for her undying service, this will be the greatest accomplishment and that is sharing what God has given to her.
She is the current seating president of Filipino Artist Realist Movement (FA:RM). She has participated in many art group shows since she began her art journey. Last March 2014, she had her first solo exhibit called "PassionArtility" – Art Association of the Philippines-Kanlungan ng Sining.
***A Selection of Connie Cabalar's Art Masterpieces***
(Please click on each image to view an enlarged version)
Title: "Lemony Fresh" Medium: Oil Size: 24"x30"
Title: Chess Piece Medium: Pastel Size: 18"x12"
Title: "The Unexpected" Medium: Acrylic on Canvas Size: 33″x 48"
Title: Agahan Medium: Pastel Size: 16"x11"
Title: Untouchable Medium: Oil Size: 30"x24"
Title: "Dine-In" Medium: Oil Size: 24"x26"
Title: Gandalf Medium: Pastel Size: 24″x 20"
Title: Koi Medium: Pastel Size: 16"x11"
Title: Raising Future Guardians Size: 5ft x 4ft
Title: Diving 10-1 Medium: Oil on Canvas Size: 24″x30" By: Connie Cabalar
Title: "Pope Francis" Medium: Oil on Canvas Size: 15″ x 20″
Title: Apple or Lime? Medium: Oil Size: 24"x36"
Title: Meow Medium: Oil Size: 24"x30"
Title:" G-Violet " Medium: Oil on Canvas Size: 18″ x 12"
Title: Kingfisher Medium: Oil Size: 20"x24"
Lorenzo E. Gabutina: The Late Blooming Filipino Visual Artist
November 9, 2015 March 16, 2016 / Jennifer Bichara	/ 4 Comments
I recently made contact with Lorenzo E. Gabutina (pseudonym: Legabutina), a digital artist, based in Caloocan, Philippines for a feature article in my blog. His out-of-the-box artistic style of abstract images that is beautifully surreal and magically pleasing to the eyes. I was immediately drawn to his work.
Lorenzo E. Gabutina has more than 30 years of professional experience in advertising and marketing management. He learned and sharpened his marketing skills in a multinational company environment with a 15-year stint in Kodak Philippines, as the company's marketing communications manager. Lorenz's first and most passionate love is advertising where he had been a copywriter and account executive for many years before assuming senior management positions. He has been involved in all key aspects of the advertising business, from creative to media, production, research and marketing planning.
According to Legabutina, he sees teaching as the culmination of his advertising career where he could share with advertising students the many insights and learning's he had gained from his long years of working in the ad industry. He is currently, an advertising lecturer at St. Scholastica's College.
Photos by http://supermantastic.tumblr.com/ (Via Katipunan Weekend Market FB Page)
Legabutina is a regular artist-seller of the monthly Future Market @ Escolta an event organized by 98b in its effort to help revitalized old Manila. He was also invited at the Katipunan Weekend Market last weekend of October. They feature a tightly curated selection of jewelry, handmade items, clothes, arts & crafts, vintage finds, delicious food & live music. If you are in the Escolta area on November 14, go checkout the Future Market. There are no specific dates scheduled for the November and December Katipunan Weekend Market but from time to time, please do check their Facebook page for exact dates.
His first artist solo art show, "The Accidental Artist" was held earlier this year at the Sigwada Art Gallery in San Andres Bukid.
Take a moment to read his artist insight, and take a peek into the mind of this late bloomer.
On his art journey:
My art journey began 5 years ago when I retired from advertising work at age of 60. I didn't know then that I could make a good art. With so much time on my hands, I started doodling on the computer and posted my works on Facebook. My friends liked it! And that is what started this art journey…..I'm a late bloomer.
Early this year my eyes got so bad that I had an operation. "Wala akong makita sa computer," I could not see the computer screen. So I started making hand drawn sketches. "Aba, pwede pala akong mag drawing with my hands!" (He said: Wow, I could draw with my hands). When I started posting them on Facebook, my friends liked it. It was a big revelation for me, to learn that I could really draw with my hands. I have always been used to doing things through the computer. I had my eye operation last April this year and my eyes now are as good as brand new. But I continue to sketch with my hands till today, aside from my digital work.
On his art:
There is nothing profound or philosophical about my art. At least, that's what I think so. Others will disagree, of course. The thing is, the narrative in my art comes after the work is finished, not before – which art critics will scoff at. There has to be a clear intent or purpose behind what you do, they will say.
My focus is on design, not the story. I want my art to be visually provocative, nothing more. If it touches your five senses and if it resonates with you; then, I am happy. I don't want my art to be 'understood' nor 'rationalized.' It's the least of my intentions. The purpose of my art is to entertain. "Mababaw ba?" (Am I shallow?)
On his art style and influences:
Artists that have had the most impact in me are Dali, Picasso, Boticelli, Miro, Klee, O-keefe, and may others whose names I can't remember now. I don't know if their style has influenced my art, maybe subconsciously, yes. I am drawn towards art that have geometric, pop, grotesque, surreal elements.
My art is a mélange of styles. I sometimes wonder if I have a unique style but it's not a big thing for me. I don't want to be boxed into a certain style anyway. I want it spontaneous, impromptu and sincere which reflects who I am as a person. What you see is what you get, "kun baga." (rather)
On being a self-taught artist:
Being a self-taught artist, I pretty much do what I want to do. Not bound by any norm or convention other than good basic aesthetic sense. I don't put on my thinking that when I work. It's purely instinctive. I just let things flow. I trust my creative instincts.
On validation:
Every artist needs validation. The feeling that he is doing something right; I get a high when I fellow artist like my work. "Gawa na araw ko pag may isang mabigat na artist na nag like sa work ko," my day is fulfilled when a big time artist admires his artworks.
The future of his art:
Where do I go from here? I will keep on marking art as long as my five senses are intact. I am happy that art came last in my checkered life. To me, it's a gift, a blessing from God. I am not a super religious person but much of who I am today and the kind of art I make, I attribute to God. "Nag- iba ang pananaw ko sa buhay," my life's vision changed when I rediscovered God.
***A Selection of Legabutina's Art Masterpieces***
(Please click image to enlarge)
Digital Collage Abstract Art
Aura Elite Magazine – Angelo Antonio Maristela: Doha Qatar Based Filipino Artist
October 1, 2015 October 3, 2015 / Jennifer Bichara	/ Leave a comment
My sixth contribution for Aura Elite Magazine (United Kingdom) — Issue No. 6 "Angelo Antonio Maristela: Doha Qatar Based Filipino-Artist"
Thank you Dee Sanchez, Chief Editor of Aura and maraming salamat rin kay Angelo.
Angelo Antonio Maristela is a multidimensional international Filipino artist who has secured himself a spot in the highly competitive world of arts. His works are recognised for excellence and he has won awards on several painting competitions which includes being one of the finalists in the Philip Morris Art Awards.
Angelo can bring a lifeless object to life. He is a gifted natural hyper-realist painter and has gainedmastery in the art of portrait making. Angelo's style can accommodate different requirements—from abstracts, impressionism to realism; marrying a vast range of hues and figures on his canvas for his corporate and commercial projects in the Philippines, USA and Qatar.
Based in Doha Qatar since 2009, his wonderful art works now hang in some of the most exclusive residential and commercial villas across the city and the Pearl, Qatar. His latest abstract series iscurrently being showcased at Bilal Pearl Suites, a 7-star residential haven at Pearl Qatar. While some of his hyper-realism artworks are gracing the interiors of Sizzling Hotpot, a newly-opened Asian restaurant in the Holiday Villa Hotel.
His artworks have been gaining popularity in the country and overseas and have been featured for a number of times in popular Qatari magazines and Angelo has been interviewed on Qatar TV. He has showcased his works in international exhibitions including the Art Encounter in Las Vegas, Nevada, the largest gallery in the state to join their dynamic roster of artists. He has also been invited to an exhibit in the Philippine Center, New York back in 2006. In September, he has two exhibitions that will be happening simultaneously—one in Biennale 2015, Italy and in Katara– at the exclusive and only Cultural Village in Doha, Qatar.
This artist's ultimate vision is to leave a lifetime legacy to preserve the culture and events through his timeless paintings for the next generations to appreciate and enjoy.
Related Article: Artist Angelo Antonio Maristela @ International Confederation of Art Critics
***A selection of Angelo Antonio Maristela's art masterpieces***
(pleas click image to enlarge)
Portrait by Angelo Maristela
Hyperrealism Series Oasis 48×48 Artist Angelo Maristela – Close Look
Hyperrealism Series Oasis Artist Angelo Maristela
Abstract Series 1 – Artist Angelo Maristela
Beauty in the Dark Artist Angelo Maristela Oil on Canvas 24×36
Al-Awras Eyes Artist Angelo Maristela 24×36 Oil on Canvas
Hyperrealism Series Oasis 48×48 Artist Angelo Maristela
SILVERADO Artist Angelo Maristela 16 x 20 Oil on Canvas