The first one of a kind exhibition "The Art of Collecting", featuring 20 fine contemporary Filipino artworks, will be exhibited from 7th Jan through 17th Jan 2010 at The Forth Gallery.
The works, ranging from modern abstract impressionism to brut and graffiti art are carefully selected by several prominent collectors in Singapore. The aim of the exhibition is to educate the public on various art collecting strategies. While first time art buyers may find it informative, seasoned art collectors will be equally entertained by the presentation and dialogues found in the collection.
Though deeply rooted in their cultures, the Filipinos are known for their heavily influenced political and social policy of the West. This phenomenon is widely reflected in their art works. Unlike their Southeast Asian counterparts, the Filipino artists' subjects, techniques and colors integration adhere closely to the modern western masters. Artists whose traditional western techniques produce strong depiction of Filipino contemporary landscape include Wire Tuazon, Jeho Bitancor, Melvin Culaba, Kiko Escora, Benjie Cabangis, Roland Ventura and 10 other artists.
Remaining close to the exhibit's theme, collectors may find that works by other emerging artists offer a well rounded representation of Filipino contemporary art. Altogether, the exhibited artists have won numerous awards and are widely collected. Art lovers, who wish to learn more on how to build a meaningful Filipino contemporary art collection, will be pleased to expect more visual treats from "The Art of Collecting".
About the Artists
Combined with superior artistic skill, Wire Tuazon's intellectual stance lead him to experiment with subtly implied symbols, set within an unseen geometrical space. Through an indirect conversation, Tuazon often encourages and involves viewers to solve his intended puzzle. Tuazon's original method of art interaction is highly valued by connoisseurs.
Meanwhile, the colors and shapes employed by Benjie Cabangis remind viewers of Malevich abstraction. Collectors may also note how Van Gogh's famous expressionist technique lends an air of sorrow and heaviness in Melvin Culaba's subjects.
If Dali's works stick to mind when one views Jeho Bitancor's piece, it is no surprise as Bitancor is known as the Filipino master surrealist artist, whose works are associated with imageries.
