MASTERPIECES: 3rd Solo Exhibition by Jensen Moreno

March 13, 2016April 25, 2016 / Jennifer Bichara / Leave a comment

When I paint, I use 110% of my brain to direct my hand to perform a thing called Masterpiece. ~ Jensen Moreno 2008

Dos Pueblos Art Gallery presents MASTERPIECES, the new solo exhibition by renowned Global Filipino artist, Jensen Moreno opening on April 1st 2016. Masterpieces marks Jensen’s third solo exhibition in Manila.

Jensen Moreno was born in Bataan, Philippines and is currently based in Beijing, China. She is at present a visual art teacher at Beijing International Bilingual Academy. She received her Masters and Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts majored in Painting from University of Santo Tomas.

To learn more about the artist, please read my featured articles linked below:

She has exhibited in numerous solo and group exhibitions. The most recent ones are at Art Fair China Beijing International, ASEAN Ladies Circle Gathering by the Embassy of the Republic of Philippines, BIBA Art Expo 2015, “Thirty-One” solo exhibition in China and Taipei. Her works are housed in international public and private collections.

MASTERPIECES are a collection of the artist masterful portraits from the past to present. It includes “THE GOAL” which is one of the most important paintings at the ASEAN Ladies Circle event. Held in Philippine Embassy in Beijing, China. Portraits of some VIPs from Philippines, Vietnam and China will showcase at the exhibition.

The exhibition will run from 1 April to 10 April 2016. Opening reception starts at 6:30pm.

(Address: 3rd Level, Robinsons Magnolia, Aurora Blvd. Corner Hermady, New Manila, Philippines)

Jensen Moreno will be available for press interviews during the exhibit from April 1st; interested journalists, please contact Jensen Moreno at jhenz09mhike@yahoo.com.ph and jensenmartijn1221@gmail.com to make an appointment.

Jensen Moreno Fostering Creativity to Excellence:

Jensen Moreno’s notion of creativity is more than originality. It is about perfection and excellence which institutes developing improvement. It is a concept which is analogous to the implied theories of creativity. Jensen infers not only the source of origin. Her works are unrelenting production of the origin, that is, the creativity. She singles out originality and imagination as the key to creativity. Her execution is a special attribute that somehow makes the act itself enigmatic.

Creativity in arts is all about liberating the energy to the canvas. Her art is dynamic, diverse and distinct. It is imaginative, ingenious, innovative and inventive. She loves taking risks and challenging the convention. Her art lies in direct proportion to the existence of art. Her level of skill, creativity and emotion is perfection and effectiveness. That had its roots in the subconscious. And was the source of new masterful discoveries.

MASTERPIECES: 3rd solo exhibition by Jensen Moreno

“THE GOAL” Portrait of Martijn Horters, 4×7 Ft Oil on Canvas

Behind the ART: “I am thankful that I have learned from the best art professors. Who should take credit for stimulating my creativity and originality! Now I have developed a process where my painting will never be easily replicated.”

“SELF-PORTRAIT” Self-Portrait of Jensen Moreno 2016, 120x170cm Oil on Canvas

Painting has always been a means of self-expression for me. Therefore, I paint because I have to and need to, not necessarily because I want to. Subconsciously or not, the figures I paint are a reflection of myself and whatever mood I am in at the time, so every painting is in essence a self-portrait.

Lori Earley

The Masterful Process of a Portrait

Jensen Moreno gets thrilled to experience the moment a painting takes on a life of its own. One instant, there is a unification of colored silhouettes on the canvas. Surface and bang! With the addition of a single stroke it’s transformed into a larger than life creation of beauty.
She strives to merge the physical and spiritual individualities of each portrait. She creates into the most telling portrait possible. Conveying the essence of her subject is vital. All her portraits provide her the chance to create a work of art. That exhibits both beauty and timelessness.
She studies the portrait paintings. Always evaluating how she can best incorporate her observations into her own masterpiece. Many of her patrons tell her that through the course of having their portraits painted. They’ve developed a pristine indebtedness for art.
Her artwork is a product from direct observation. That also allows her the opportunity to observe. And incorporate more subtle nuances of form and color into her painting. The process of creating from life’s relationships is exhilarating.
To the artist, a great portrait painting is not just capturing a faithful likeness. The physical process of applying paint with only a palette knife creates a unique dynamic energy. That is impossible to replicate through any machine-driven process.
She gives herself unlimited chances to edit what she has observed. Whether it is from a live subject or from a photograph. She reimagines and reexamines the subject all over again. Allowing the artist to be a child all over again. While playing things down to create something wonderful. That goes far beyond the realms of imagination. She further reviews photos as a beginning reference. And decides to alter them to varying degree.
To meet a final masterful masterpiece portrait that best conveys her sense of completion. Where each element must be in perfect harmony with the entirety of compositions. She strives to reach the highest artistic plateaus to achieve her goal of excellence. And to help create portraits that will outshine all expectations.

“THE GIFT” Portrait of Artist Daughter, 120x170cm Oil on Canvas

To My Precious Gift,

“When the time you were born, you became my inspiration. I envision your beautiful face, the twinkle of your eyes. And the things you do that make me laugh. Our bond together from the womb and to the moment you were born is irreplaceable. That will never ever be torn away from us. I pray that God will give me strength and guidance for all the blessings he pours down from above. I am doing my best to be the best mother to you. I will always embrace you with all my motherly love. To me, you are the most precious gift. You are as exquisite as a flower and as sublime as a rose. You have been specially made by God to be my daughter. You are brighter than the sun every time you give me that smile. My only wish as a mother is that I want you to be proud of who you are and to strive for the best. Bring to bear efforts to make sure that your goals are achieved. And let God do the rest. But remember, I will always be your mother first. But will also be your friend. You are the most precious gift, that I’ve ever been given. Thank you.

Sincerely,

Mommy

“THE LOVE”
Portrait of Anna Horters, 120x170cm Oil on Canvas

Family isn’t always blood. It’s the people in your life who want you in theirs; the ones who accept you for who you are. The ones who would do anything to see you smile & who LOVE YOU no matter what.

“RICH AND FAMOUS”Portrait of Huang Jiannan, 90x100cm Oil on Canvas

Behind the ART: Huang Jiannan, 60, has garnered fame both in and outside of China. His works praised by the art community where his pieces sold at high prices.

Huang is a skilled painter who specializes on landscapes. He has a propensity for bright colors in his works. He prefers the techniques of traditional ink painting. While combining with Western-featured oil painting. That helped shaped his pieces in a style that is his own.

For Huang, success isn’t born out of pure luck.

If an artist mimics the work of great masters, his own artwork will be a repeat. The nature of art is to be original and creative. But this talent must be on hard work and persistence.

Source: bjreview.com

“THE VOICE”Portrait of Soprano Singer Lady Lu Ye, 4x7ft Oil on Canvas

Behind the ART: Lady Lu Ye, Ambassador of Italian Culture to the world and acclaimed soprano and actress. She has performed at some of the world’s most prestigious venues to critical acclaim. She is known as “Una voce per Papa Francesco” by La Gazzetta dello Spettacolo. She was the first Asian, first Canadian, and the first Chinese artist in history to perform for Pope Francis’ birthday and the annual Christmas concert in Rome, Italy. She was also honored to be the first artist of Asian descendent to sing the Canadian National Anthem in hockey history. Voice like an angel, magic …” claimed La Presse which has been the shared opinion of many since her early career.

Italian music critics proclaimed:

She owns a beautiful voice of color, expressiveness and rich inventiveness of interpretation.

Image Credits: Supplied

Poster Graphics: Racky Eugenio

Photographer: Totong TJ

The Art and Work of Connie Cabalar

November 13, 2015March 16, 2016 / Jennifer Bichara / Leave a comment

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)

Connie Cabalar, Maria Conception Talinao, Charcoal, Pastel, Acrylic, Oil, Portraits, Landscape, Figures, Still Life, Art, Artist, ArtPH, Artworks, Beautiful, Colour, Color, Colorist, Contemporary Art, Contemporary Artist, Creative, Filipina Artist, Filipina Painter, Filipino Art, Fineart, Gallery Art, Oil on Canvas, Oil Paintings, Paint, Painter, Painting, Paintings, Visual Artist, Wall Art, Artist Feature

Title: Kingfisher Medium: Oil Size: 20”x24”

Title: Chess Piece Medium: Pastel Size: 18”x12”

Title: “Dine-In” Medium: Oil Size: 24”x26”

Title: “The Unexpected” Medium: Acrylic on Canvas Size: 33″x 48”

Title: Raising Future Guardians Size: 5ft x 4ft

Title: Gandalf Medium: Pastel Size: 24″x 20”

Title: “Lemony Fresh” Medium: Oil Size: 24”x30”

Title: Koi Medium: Pastel Size: 16”x11”

Title: Diving 10-1 Medium: Oil on Canvas Size: 24″x30” By: Connie Cabalar

Title: Meow Medium: Oil Size: 24”x30”

Title:” G-Violet ” Medium: Oil on Canvas Size: 18″ x 12”

Title: Agahan Medium: Pastel Size: 16”x11”

Title: Untouchable Medium: Oil Size: 30”x24”

Title: Raising Future Guardians Size: 5ft x 4ft

Title: “Pope Francis” Medium: Oil on Canvas Size: 15″ x 20″

Title: “The Unexpected” Medium: Acrylic on Canvas Size: 33″x 48”

POPE JOHN PAUL II

Title: Apple or Lime? Medium: Oil Size: 24”x36”

Images used with permission.

Arlene de Castro-Anonuevo (Adec): Poetess & Visual Artist

October 28, 2015March 16, 2016 / Jennifer Bichara / 6 Comments

Arlene de Castro-Añonuevo or “Adecastroan” is a poet and thinker who wielded the paintbrush or pencil as passionately as she did the pen. She is a versatile gifted artist who occupied many creative realms that provided reciprocal sources of inspiration. She can easily shift from one style to another from realism, impressionism, expressionism, surrealism, and abstract. She brings her variety of eclectic style and her attention to the finer details of the painting, the use of allegory, the story and emotion she conveys in each of her work that invites the viewer to explore the depths of her subject and have a glimpse of her soul as an artist. She further augments the countenance of her art by using a broad range of medium from pastel, watercolor, oil, and acrylic on paper and canvas. Then, her words follow her paintings, as a poetess who creates a poem in response to her work of art, her words become a way of seeing—a collaboration within the conversation.

“I have a very creative mind, and often the products of my creative mind manifest first in my dreams,” as quoted in INQUIRER.net.

Art was always part of Adecastroan’s life, her childhood hours spent sketching and drawing instead of playing. Native of the rustic town Iba, Zambales by Carlos Gonzales de Castro, a Zambaleno of Spanish descent and Estela Sy Loria, his Chinese-mestiza wife from Pangasinan. Her patriarchal roots in this place can be traced as far back as the time of revolutionary patriot “Andres de Castro Bonifacio,” whose mother Catalina who hails from barrio Dirita, is her great grand aunt.

Adecastroan, an AB Sociology graduate of the University of the Philippines who only started painting in 2003 after her early retirement from Cathay Pacific Airways as a stewardess, and later from Midtown Hotel which allowed her to enhance her artistic expression furthermore. Although largely a self-taught artist, she did learn the basics from Filipino master artist “Fernando Sena,” and “Arte Pintura” artists specifically, “Addie Cukingnam,” “Azor Pazcoguin” and “Rey Ademis.” In the short period of time, she has developed a unique style of her own inspired by the variation of post-impressionism color theory, combined with a keen sense of observation of the natural world. Indeed, her opulently textured artworks are a visual feast to the eyes.

“I paint my subject as he gets in touch with his inner self. Whenever one looks at my painting, I want him to answer this question: What does it mean to be a person historically, experientially and personally? The viewer has to go beyond the surface and reflect on what he sees so as to arrive at a deeper understanding of the human psyche. This is the foremost reason why I do not render my subject based on the usual standard of rendering it; symbolism always being an integral part of my work. Philosopher Descartes says “I think therefore I am.” In my paintings, I say “I think and I feel therefore I am.” Painting is not a matter of duplicating an image but capturing my subject’s essence- soul on canvas.”~Adecastroan

She is a highly talented painter, blogger and a poetess who sometimes dabble in modeling for photography. She is currently residing in Quezon City and had her first one-artist show in the Heritage Art and Antiquities Gallery in 2009. She has participated in various group exhibits including “Katha,” which is a monthly art exhibit on different themes expressed through art by different independent artists. She is an active member of the “Linangan ng Kulturang Pilipino Group.” This sociopolitical organization that tackles issues in society and she is involved with visual and performance arts under poetry. Her artworks are also displayed at “Bahay Nakpil-Bautista“ and joins poetry reading and other Filipino heritage events. Her other interests includes membership in the Screenwriter’s Guild of the Philippines and the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS). The proceeds of her work support her staunch activism for animal rights and welfare.

***A Selection of Adecastroan’s Art Masterpieces***

(Please click image to enlarge)

Arlene de Castro-Anonuevo, Adec, RED DOG - Poems, Musings, Visuals by Arlene 'Adec' de Castro-Anonuevo, Adecastroan Paintings, Adecsky Explorer, Andres Bonifacio, Bonifacio decendants, Bahay-Nakpil Bautista, Acrylic, Acrylic Paintings, Animal Rights Advocate, Art, Artist, ArtPH, Artworks, Beautiful, Blogger, Colour, Color, Colorist, Consultant for Speech and Personality Development, Contemporary Art, Contemporary Artist, Creative, Filipina Artist, Filipina Painter, Filipino Art, Fineart, Gallery Art, Model for Photography, Oil on Canvas, Oil Paintings, Paint, Painter, Painting, Paintings, Photography Model, Photographer, Poet, Portraits, Soft Pastel, Visual Artist, Wall Art, Writer

Filipina Artist: Arlene de Castro-Anonuevo, “Urban Jungle,” Oil on Canvas

Filipina Artist: Arlene de Castro-Anonuevo, “Suntok Sa Buwan,” Oil on Canvas

Filipina Artist: Arlene de Castro-Anonuevo, “Bird Charmers”, Acrylic on Canvas

Arlene de Castro-Anonuevo, Adec, RED DOG - Poems, Musings, Visuals by Arlene 'Adec' de Castro-Anonuevo, Adecastroan Paintings, Adecsky Explorer, Acrylic, Acrylic Paintings, Animal Rights Advocate, Art, Artist, ArtPH, Artworks, Beautiful, Blogger, Colour, Color, Colorist, Consultant for Speech and Personality Development, Contemporary Art, Contemporary Artist, Creative, Filipina Artist, Filipina Painter, Filipino Art, Fineart, Gallery Art, Model for Photography, Oil on Canvas, Oil Paintings, Paint, Painter, Painting, Paintings, Photography Model, Photographer, Poet, Portraits, Soft Pastel, Visual Artist, Wall Art, Writer

Filipina Artist: Arlene de Castro-Anonuevo, “Samsara”, Oil on Canvas, 4ftx5ft

Filipina Artist: Arlene de Castro-Anonuevo, “The Promise of a Hummingbird,” Soft Pastel

Filipina Artist: Arlene de Castro-Anonuevo, “Silence,” Oil on Canvas, 2.5×3 ft

Filipina Artist: Arlene de Castro-Anonuevo,”The Flower Offering,” Oil on Canvas, Dr. I. Porter’s collection

Filipina Artist: Arlene de Castro-Anonuevo, “One Moment,” Soft Pastel

Filipina Artist: Arlene de Castro-Anonuevo, “Wings of Light,” Soft Pastel, 20×25 – My very first gift. Thank you again.

Filipina Artist: Arlene de Castro-Anonuevo, “The Whisper of the Butterflies,” Soft Pastel

Filipina Artist: Arlene de Castro-Anonuevo, “Madonna and Child of the Blue Butterflies,” Oil on Canvas

Filipina Artist Arlene de Castro-Anonuevo “Dugo Para Sa Kalayaan”, Soft Pastel, 20″x25,” Isang pagaalala sa nalalapit na kaarawan ni Ka Oryang

Filipina Artist: Arlene de Castro-Anonuevo, “Fire in the Sky,” Oil on Canvas

Filipina Artist: Arlene de Castro-Anonuevo, “How shall I answer the flattery of your tongue?,” Oil on Canvas

Filipina Artist: Arlene de Castro-Anonuevo, “The Passion of Flowers,” Oil on Canvas

Filipina Artist: Arlene de Castro-Anonuevo, “Usapang Babae,” Oil on Canvas

To contact the artist:

Facebook Pages:

Website: www.adecastroan.blogspot.com

Email the artist:

atheloft@yahoo.com
adecastroan@yahoo.com

Article Sources:

Ronnie Pascual: Filipino Painter & Art Instructor Based in Muscat, Oman

October 16, 2015March 16, 2016 / Jennifer Bichara / Leave a comment

To be of great service to people, in assisting them to enhance their creativity and satisfy their appreciation for arts and promoting it as an expression of oneself, hobby, a source of income and a way of living. ~Ronnie Pascual

Ronnie Pascual exemplifies an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) who strives to improve his status in life. He was born in Tarlac City and there, he finished AB in Social Sciences and proceeded to Bachelor of Fine Arts, major in Advertising at the Tarlac State University. Like many of our “kababayans” (countrymen) looking for better opportunities, Ronnie left the country in 2006.

Through an agency, he was able to go to Jubail, Saudi Arabia as a contracts assistant and moved to Qurum, Oman to work as an artist production officer. Then, he accepted an ideal opportunity to be an art instructor in Muscat, Oman. Ronnie is a passionate educator who rolls up his sleeves to facilitate art classes for children, youth and adults. He stores seasonal display conceptual design & installation, does layout design for advertising and lastly, visits schools for art demo exhibit of related art materials, supplies and resources.

Ronnie is an experienced art teacher, happy to teach with a flair for creativity, team work, independence, resilience, with a background of student centered learning. To supplement his income, he dabbles in freelance work and accepts private artwork orders in sketching, drawings and paintings. He also does art and interior design consultation on the side as well. The artist enjoys his time by deepening his understanding of socially committed art by staying active in the Muscat art scene. He is currently working on artworks for a future solo art show.

His happily engaged in some of Muscat’s art related activities:

(April 2015) Muscat local artists have shown just how big their arts are with their generous donations to the “Sultan’s School Art Auction 2015,” which raised money for Dar Al Hannan, a home for children with cancer and their families. Out of the artist who contributed is Ronnie Pascual who sold two of his artworks (The Date Series and A Child’s Love & Memory of Her Mother) out of the support of the cause.
Filipino Artist Ronnie Pascual at the IDF expo with Paragon Arts team.

(February 2015) He partakes in one of Paragon Arts IDF Expo with the Paragon Arts team. Paragon Arts is a SCR initiative by highly diverse blend of talented artists, specialized tradesmen, businesses and artisans to aim and focus to encourage and promote a wide variety of arts in Oman.

(November 2014) He was a mentor and witnessed the growing number of young creative talents in Oman which was sponsored by Y Magazine’s historic art project, “Portrait By A Nation,” celebrating “Oman’s 44th National Day.“
Ronnie Pascual participated at “The 22nd Annual Arts Exhibition 2014” with the “Omani Society of Fine Arts.”

(November 2014) Two of his oil on canvas paintings was showcased in the “The 22nd Annual Arts Exhibition 2014,” a sidelight of the whole-day affair. They were presented to the “Omani Society of Fine Arts.” Many of the works are Oman inspired pieces showcasing the different painting, printing and sculpture techniques of some of Oman’s most influential artists to date artist paving the way for future generations of Omani artists to explore, build, install and create a lasting artistic legacy in the Sultanate.
Arabic Floral Design – ART of C – City Centre 2014 (19th to 27th of Oct)

(October 2014) He also took part as one of the 35 selected artists who participated and shared each other’s creativity with the initiative of City Centre Muscat & Qurum in cooperation with the Omani Society for Fine Arts. In celebration of the “44th National Day of Oman,” 44 ‘C’ sculptures was placed in key areas in City Centre Muscat and City Centre Qurum, and used as blank canvases for invited artists to transform into wondrous masterpieces.
(December 2013) Filipino expats living in Oman responded to the Typhoon Yolanda calamities that ravaged the Visayan islands leaving thousands homeless and helpless. Ronnie donated 3 paintings during an organized exhibit for Typhoon Yolanda victims. Besides a painter and art instructor, he is also a writer and a poet by heart. Here is the poem he wrote his sentiments about Rebuild Visayas called Sama-Sama.
(September 2013) His artworks was exhibited at the BT Gallery in SABCO Commercial Center, Qurum.

***A Selection of Ronnie Pascual’s Art Masterpieces***

(Please click image to enlarge)

Preview: Beginnings 2014-2015

Filipino Artist Ronnie Pascual – Entry: September 2014 “ART of C” Competition for the 44th National Day of the Sultanate of Oman organized by City Centre Qurum & Muscat in cooperation with the Omani Society for Fine Arts.

Filipino Artist Ronnie Pascual – Entry for Omani Society for Fine Arts “The 22nd Annual Arts Exhibition 2014” Title: The Joy & Beauty of Oman.

Filipino Artist Ronnie Pascual – Art piece for Group Exhibit Paragon Arts – 17th to 19th Feb 2015

Filipino Artist Ronnie Pascual – In Honor and Respect for His Majesty Sultan Qaboos of the Sultanate of Oman.

Filipino Artist Ronnie Pascual – Entry for ARC Salon Competition January 2015 The essence of a competition, challenges you to be productive, creative and imaginative. Win or Lose… one has gained or developed something in the process. Congratulations to all the participants, finalists & winners.

Filipino Artist Ronnie Pascual – Entry for Omani Society for Fine Arts “The 22nd Annual Arts Exhibition 2014” Title: In the Light of Holy Qur’an.

2 of 2 – Art work donated by Filipino Artist Ronnie Pascual for The Sultan’s School Art Auction 2015 – April Title: A Child’s Love & Memory of Her Mother

1 of 2 – Art work donated by Filipino Artist Ronnie Pascual for The Sultan’s School Art Auction 2015 – April Title: Dates Series

ART COLLECTION SERIES – RCPascual Arts & Design

Ronnie Pascual-Art Collection Series-RCPascual Arts Design

Portraits: Sketches, Drawings & Paintings

Learning Never Ends!

Filipino Artist Ronnie Pascual – Portraits, Sketches, Drawings and Paintings. Learning Never Stops.

Artwork by Filipino Ronnie Pascual Based on Tesseera Sared Al Barram’s Photo.

Filipino Artist Ronnie Pascual – “Portrait Study of an Arabian Leader – Capturing a character & emotion. The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan served as President of the United Arab Emirates.”

Filipino Artist Ronnie Pascual – “Portrait Study of an Indian Lady which illustrates their culture & beauty.”

Filipino Artist Ronnie Pascual – materials and tools used charcoal and pastel on gray-toned paper.

Arts for the Philippine Islands – Rebuild The Visayas – Muscat, Oman Auction

Title: Dalamhati ng Ina Medium: Monotype Print Size: 50cm x 30cm

Title: Pulang Lobo ng Mag-Inang Bayan Medium: Acrylic on Canvas Size: 80cm x 60cm

Title: Arko ng Bahaghari Medium: Acrylic on Canvas Size: 40cm x 100cm

“Tiinz” Taruc Impressionistic Art

October 5, 2015October 5, 2015 / Jennifer Bichara / Leave a comment

“I went to The Louvre Museum in Paris in the early 1980’s and I fell in love with impressionist painting. Since then, the rest is history.”

Maria Cristina Valencia Taruc or “Tiinz” Taruc for short is a Filipina master painter whose art is fresh and modern. The vivid color she uses is bright and her brush stroke is loose and freely comes from her soul as described by local art critic Gigi Cortez Balmaceda.

The artist is famous for her impressionism paintings such as her sunflowers, koi fishes, landscapes, Mother and Child series and her social realism modern style portraits. Tiinz Taruc art is contemporary and is reminiscent of Georgia O’Keefe style flower paintings while her beautiful landscape paintings and the changing effects of light are evocative of Van Gogh and Monets.

Impressionist artists were characterized by their visual impact influenced by nature and love for the environment. Such artist sought to depict whatever they happened to see at a given moment by using pure, broken and often unmatched color to achieve an appearance of improvisation. They usually painted ordinary everyday subjects and omitted detail in their subjects to create a striking overall effect.

Born in Tarlac and is a granddaughter of the late Huk Supremo Luis Taruc, founder and leader of the Hukbo ng Bayan Laban sa mga Hapon (Hukbalahap or Huk) from 1942 to 1954, after he led an insurgency group fighting for land reform even earlier in the 1930’s. Tinz Taruc is an impressionist whose paintings have been inspired by Philippine patriotism and Hukbalahap stories, a trait she is believed to have inherited from her grandfather.

Balmaceda noted that Maria Cristina studied visual arts and graphic design at the Parsons School of Design in New York City and became “a prodigy of masters Rafael Maniago and Bienvenido Sibug in Los Angeles, and also learned from Aris C Bagtas of Marilao, Bulacan.”

Tiinz is a prolific painter and her paintings have given her hope and life. She added that art helps her deal with the love she lost and face reality with a positive outlook. She will be coming back to the Philippines from New York City and Los Angeles to have her 5th Art Exhibition in Pampanga in December 1, 2015 showcasing her “Mother & Daughter” series.

***A selection of Tiinz Taruc’s art masterpieces***

(pleas click image to enlarge)

Mother & Child Series

Sunflower Series

Koi Fish & Landscape Pond Series

All artworks used with permission.

To contact the artist for art inquiries or acrylic/oil collaboration, please email her at Cvtaruc@yahoo.com.

Source Articles: Punto.com, Sunstar.com

Aura Elite Magazine – Angelo Antonio Maristela: Doha Qatar Based Filipino Artist

October 1, 2015October 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.

A selection of Angelo Antonio Maristela’s art masterpieces

(pleas click image to enlarge)

: Hyperrealism Series Oasis 48×48 Artist Angelo Maristela

Abstract Series 3 – Artist Angelo Maristela

Hyperrealism Series Oasis Artist Angelo Maristela

Hyperrealism Series Oasis 48×48 Artist Angelo Maristela – Close Look

Abstract Series 2 – Artist Angelo Maristela

Abstract Series 3 – Artist Angelo Maristela

Portrait by 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

Abstract Series 1 – Artist Angelo Maristela

SILVERADO Artist Angelo Maristela 16 x 20 Oil on Canvas

All images used with permission.

Surreal Impressionist Portraits by Camille Dela Rosa—“The Enchantress Series”

August 31, 2015August 31, 2015 / Jennifer Bichara / 1 Comment

Camille Dela Rosa is a contemporary artist born in 1982 in Santa Cruz, Manila. As a daughter of the late renowned painter Ibarra Y. Dela Rosa and Ethel Dimacuha, a retired Humanities Professor who is also a visual artist; it could be said that Camille was destined to be an artist.

Because of her natural born talent and artistic skills when it comes to painting, Art Critic Cid Reyes dubbed her as the “Youngest impressionist painter in the Philippines” during her time.

At 16, the talented self-taught artist learned how to paint and used her father’s style of art in her early exhibits and previous paintings as an inspiration.

A prolific artist who has exhibited in places in Europe and Asia and has also curved a path of experimentation who sought to paint the surreal, morbid and the macabre of the world. Her works oozing with mystical, esoteric and occult symbolism.

If the saying “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder” is universally acceptable, it can thus be said that there’s real beauty in the “morbid” canvases of Camille Dela Rosa.

Her creations have been a way of exploring the shadowy places existing within her imagination, a story to be told and to be experienced. Her exhibit in 2009 “Aenigma” and last year’s “Reina Imperium” at the Art Underground explored on the dark recesses of humanity’s soul.

“The Enchantress Series” of surreal portraits which highlights her realistically-rendered subjects on the strength of the women in their powerful roles as mothers, warriors, and queens—a veiled woman nursing a large rabbit as if it was her child, or an image of a woman’s head as the foundation of a Corinthian column decked with cherubs. It is a practice that is quite appealing and striking, yet expressive and haunting.

Camille Dela Rosa is one artist who uses her commanding talents to remind us that although women must never be exteriorized, their beauty and innate power should also be continually celebrated. The series reflects women’s lives and experiences, as well as to change the foundation for the production and reception of how women are being perceived.

A classically trained singer from the College of Music of the University of the Philippines with mix of experiences and spellbinding background is exemplified in the quality of her painting masterpieces.

Beneath Each Knowing_4x3 feet_oil on canvas by Camille Dela Rosa_2014

Each Time’s Return_3x3 feet_oil on canvas by Camille Dela Rosa_2015

Emperatriz_4x3 feet_oil on canvas by Camille Dela Rosa_2014

Endless Beginning_5x4 feet_oil on canvas by Camille Dela Rosa_2014

In One with Nature_36x24inches_oil on canvas by Camille Dela Rosa_2015

In the Stillness of Right Time_4x3 feet_oil on canvas by Camille Dela Rosa_2014

Lily of the Valley_4x3 feet_oil on canvas by Camille Dela Rosa_2015

Persephone Unveiled_48x36 inches_year2015_oil on canvas by Camille Dela Rosa

That Each May Be Greater_3x3 feet_oil on canvas by Camille Dela Rosa_2014

The Fullfilment of Each_4x3 feet_oil on canvas by Camille Dela Rosa_2015

The One That Is Both_3x4 feet_oil on canvas by Camille Dela Rosa_2015

The Other’s Hidden Center_4x3 feet_oil on canvas by Camille Dela Rosa_2015

Within Her Holding_4x3 feet_oil on canvas by Camille Dela Rosa_2014

Her 20th exhibition was recently held at Art Underground which featured the Enchantress Series. AU is located at 814 Balagtas Street Barangay Addition Hills Mandaluyong City.

Images used with permission.

Article Sources: Wikipedia, www.camilledelarosa.net, www.clickthecity.com – Enchantress, www.circuitmag.net – Venus: The Power of Camille Dela Rosa’s Goddesses at Art Underground

Joel Chavez, Contemporary Realist Filipino Painter

August 23, 2015August 22, 2015 / Jennifer Bichara / Leave a comment

Joel Chavez has a slightly different idea of Renaissance portraiture than the average artist. He has this contrasting idea of what a contemporary portraiture art making should be. This artist whose first solo exhibition was recently exhibited at the Art Underground Gallery in Mandaluyong City called “Redeeming the Rebirth,” who paints wonderful portraits in Renaissance style, but with eye-catching modern and contemporary touches.

Image Source: Art Underground

His artworks are an astonishing symbolic realism and for all the seeming influences of Renaissance Masters—Caravaggio and the Dutch artist Johannes Vermeer; both who belong to a Revival Period of light and shadow are also strong influences to the art of modern Filipino artist, Joel Chavez.

These paintings make us think about what the Renaissance masters would think if they could see the world today. Chavez’s cultivates a mature stroke of art form that only a great master can achieve. His art has depth and self-control in which each painting has strong kinship to the artist of the Enlightenment period, thinkers who embodied its ideas.

“Symmetry of Glamour,” denotes the detachment between outward appearances and inward splendor while as for “Eyes are Windows to the Soul,” Chavez puts a diamond across the eyes of the woman to portray the beauty within.

“Solemnity of an Aristocrat” has a red dot painted on the nose of a well-dressed turbaned man signifies a paragon of wealth to aristocrats is as important as a sentient.

The choice of his copiousness of characters combined with the sublime techniques marks the 24-year-old artist as a painter to watch for. Chavez is a product of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) who hales from Sana Mesa, Philippines.

“Playful Charm”
oil on canvas
48 x 36 inches
2015
*His version of Johannes Vermeer’s “Girl with the Pearl Earring” from his solo exhibition entitled “Redeeming the Rebirth” @ Art Underground

“She wants to play a game”
oil on canvas
48 x 36″
2015
*His version of Da Vinci’s Lady with an Ermine from his solo exhibition entitled “Redeeming the Rebirth @ Art Underground Gallery

“Mona Chrome”
oil on canvas
48 x 24 inches
2014 @ Boston Gallery

His version of Grant Wood’s painting ” American Gothic”
oil on canvas
48 x 36 inches
2015 @ Art Underground Gallery

“Quest for Wisdom” Artwork by Joel Chavez (Part of his exhibit, Redeeming the Rebirth)

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Achievements:

Grand Prize — First Avida 3D Street Painting Competition 2011 (group)
2^nd Place — 2^nd Avida 3D Street Painting Competition 2012 (group)
Grand Prize — Magnolia Tumbler Design Making Competition 2010
Hon. Mention — Maningning Miclat Painting Competition 2011
Finalist Golden Season Painting Competition 2011
2^nd Place — Rotary On the Spot Painting Competition 2012

Exhibitions: Group Show

Blue Series — (2012) Big and Small Art Gallery, 4^th floor, SM Megamall
Independence Day — (2012) Big and Small Art Gallery, Vietnam
Self Portrait — (2012) Big and Small Art Gallery, 4^th floor, SM Megamall
Child — (2012) Art Center, 4^th floor, SM Megamall
Pain and Pleasure — (2012) Big and Small Art Gallery, 4^th floor, SM Megamall
Bonifacio — (2013) Yuchengco Museum
Mother and Child — (2013) Big and Small Art Gallery, 4^th floor, SM Megamall
Child — (2013) Art Center, 4^th floor, SM Megamall
Affordable Art — (2014) SM Aura
Art in the Park — (2014) Salcedo Village, Makati City
Ave Figuras — (2014) Art Center, 4^th floor, SM Megamall
Group Show — (2014) Boston Gallery

CONTACT

To buy his art or inquiries for commission work, feel free to contact the artist at chavezjoel569@yahoo.com, contact no. 09051039367 and in Facebook, Art of Joel Chavez.

Article Source: Symbolic Realism of Joel Chavez

Art provided by the Artist: Joel Chavez.

Art Kardashian Photography

March 30, 2014October 10, 2014 / Jennifer Bichara / 2 Comments

Art Kardashian fell in love with photography in 2007 with his point-and-shoot camera. Over the years, he upgraded to Nikon DSLR, and currently shoots with D600. He is self-taught and all his work is original. He loves Ansel Adams and his connection with nature.

When words become unclear, I shall focus with photographs. When images become inadequate, I shall be content with silence. – Ansel Adams

Landscapes, architecture, cars, cities, mountains and railroads are few things that he likes to photograph. As you can see, he is a city boy in love with nature and everything in life.

Art and I recently reconnected in Facebook…We used to be neighbors in Los Angeles. Talk about blast in the past…I am truly happy for him and would like to dedicate this post to his photography.

Go stop by and like by his Facebook page, check his website out and shop in his store.