Philipp Ines’ symbiotic vision of land and sea
The ArtistSpace at Ayala Museum in Makati City becomes a gateway to the natural world with the exhibit “As Above, So Below,” a two-man show by artists Kenver Resuello and Philipp Ines. Among the standout features of the exhibit are Ines’ striking environmental paintings, which not only celebrate the vibrancy of Earth’s ecosystems, but also serve as poignant reminders of their fragility. Inspired by marine biologist and best-selling author Rachel Carson’s classic sea trilogy, particularly “The Sea Around Us” (1951), Ines’ works explore the intricate symbiosis between the terrestrial and aquatic worlds.
Ines draws from Carson’s poetic and scientific exploration of the ocean as “the great mother of life,” crafting vivid portrayals of coral reefs, anemones, and sea turtles. These lush, underwater tableaux brim with clarity and detail, capturing the exuberance of marine biodiversity.
However, amidst their beauty lie subtle yet unsettling symbols of human intrusion: a pair of goggles, a set of eyes, and other artifacts that underscore the delicate balance between nature’s splendor and humanity’s impact.
Carson’s vision of the ocean’s primordial birth and its role as a cradle of life resonates deeply in Ines’ work. Just as Carson wrote about the relentless rains that filled Earth’s basins and brought forth the sea, Ines’ art evokes a sense of origins—a return to the interconnectedness of all life. Through vibrant yet harmonious colors and audacious compositions, Ines creates a visual dialogue that bridges land and sea, flora and fauna, and humanity’s place within this intricate web.
Interconnectedness
The immersive nature of the exhibit is further heightened by the interplay between Ines’ work and that of his coexhibitor, Resuello. Together, they weave a narrative that highlights the interconnectedness of Earth’s ecosystems, from sky to sea. While Resuello’s focus is more celestial, Ines anchors his vision in the ocean’s depths, echoing Carson’s assertion that “all life is interconnected.”
Ines’ ability to capture this symbiosis extends beyond his technical mastery. His paintings, rich with pictorial audacity and serene exuberance, juxtapose the wild lushness of flora with human forms, almost as silhouettes within jungle-like surroundings. The result is a tapestry of life that is both grounding and transcendent, urging viewers to reflect on the fragile beauty of the world they inhabit.
As Carson cautioned in “The Sea Around Us,” humanity’s record as a steward of Earth’s natural resources has been a disheartening one. Ines’ art echoes this warning, portraying not just the wonder of the ocean but also the consequences of human interference. His work invites viewers to mentally and imaginatively “reenter” the sea, to reconnect with the rhythms of nature, and to reconsider their role as stewards of a shared planet.
“As Above, So Below” is more than an art exhibit; it is a call to action. Ines’ environmental paintings offer a vision of hope and harmony, inspired by the timeless wisdom of Rachel Carson. Through his art, Ines reminds us that the preservation of Earth’s wonders lies not just in understanding their beauty but in honoring the delicate balance that sustains them.
