In Memory

Guess who's coming back in Manila? Globally renowned artist Arkiv Vilmansa is set for another breathtaking exhibition entitled "RELICS"(his second Philippine one-man show) on December 16, 2011 at Vinyl on Vinyl gallery, The Collective. Known for his masterpieces of colorful iconic characters, the Indonesian master is an architect and graphic designer who initially gaining international recognition with his vinyl toys, Vilmansa then began painting with acrylic on canvas that have now become his main media. Since 2008, Vilmansa has consistently exhibited his works in group and solo shows, receiving critical acclaim from the global art world. Now he has come back to the country to unfold the brilliance of his artistry. To quote:
"This exhibition marks the artist exploring the felt abstraction of memory, trying to capture the spirit of the Philippines as he remembers it, rather than representing it figuratively. These works communicate the retained fragments of times past, that are now returning - as relics to the present. Memory is inaccurate and prejudiced, but they bestow depth to experiences and make them unique. These paintings do not directly show us coastal lines, palm trees and the turquoise sea of the tropics, but the experience of these phenomena as they are preserved in the artist’s memory. His unique, curvaceous lines and luscious colours dance elegantly on these canvases as if to a graceful rhythm. A rhythm we cannot hear, but feel. Memory is a wild terrain, where one could so easily lose their way.This exhibition marks Vilmansa's way of taming the wilderness, to make sense of his memories, in order to share that experience with others." -Mitha Budhyarto
A must-go and see to all art lovers out there. Definitely an event you surely wouldn't want to miss. See you there.

"Because of the Times".

"Brighten Heart".

"Found that Soul."

Arkiv's masterpiece.

Tha artist in his studio.

Art Attack



A matter of space



Urban Art is gaining popularity in the Philippines.  Visited a gallery called Vinyl on Vinyl at The Collective (located at Malugay Street in Makati City) while waiting for a meeting to happen and ended up immersing myself for hours of interesting conversation on what is seemingly called modern art.  Cool owners race car champion Gabby de la Merced and makeup artist Pia Reyes are the moving force behind this contemporary movement in the local landscape.  Refreshingly distinct, the gallery is nothing of the typical as it showcases vinyl toys, records and more importantly a visual platform for for the new genre.

Pia(left) wearing white top and denims both from Topshop, shoes by Rubi
and watch by Casio. Gabby(right) wearing white top by Forever 21, pants by Topshop,
watch by Omega, headband by Accesorize and shoes by Rubi.



multiple exposures



The painting at the foreground was inspired from the Jollibee mascot. 

Toy stories.

Stairway to haven.



Di-Vinyl



Fixture perfect.

Sitting pretty.

Currently on exhibition are the works of Indonesian artist Arkiv Vilmansa who's global popularity is gaining faster than the speed of light.  I am inspired by the exposition of his pieces in big strokes of genius bursting in kaleidoscopic numbers.  Bold, playful and fun with a subtext of humor, I couldn't help my running thoughts enter the realms of endless semiotics.  



Hair extensions?




Guessing game.




A closer look at Jollibee.

Great Wall.

The underground art scene seem to be picking up in Manila since a couple of months back global artist Tara Mcpherson (painter, freelance illustrator and poster artist) held an exhibit in Vinyl on Vinyl as well.  A window to an alternative culture is quite welcoming.  Introducing a diversity of visually appealing perspectives, it doesn't hurt local art as long as we keep our eyes wide open and tinker with the labyrinths of our mind.

Celebrating the Art of Noise.

Spray painted low top leather sneakers by Margiela

The author wearing white pinted tee by Uniqlo, military green pants by Zara, low top
 leather sneakers by Margiela and  large two-toned luggage tote by Celine.