Various stories uniquely told through colorful strokes
Jason Aniban, in his artwork, portrays gondolas on the calm waters of a quaint canal, reminiscent of local fishing communities. It reflects his oeuvre, inspired by his childhood in the slum areas. He paints mostly scenes, escapes and homes of indigent people.
Arnold Goloyugo shows a scene around an overpass, hoping to remind the viewer that, despite the trials and hardships, they can still find reasons to persevere, hope and smile.
Rhodelyn Come paints an Ivatan girl dressed to tend the fields. Her subject wears the vakul and yuvuk, the traditional headdress and basket. She captures and honors her heritage. Come said: “Through my art, I strive to bring the beauty of my homeland to a broader audience, infusing our creations with the essence of Ivatan life and landscapes.”
‘Kulay sa Tubig’
Come, Aniban and Goloyugo all took part in Gallery Genesis’ Kulay sa Tubig tilt, together with 94 other candidates of diverse ages, approaches, achievements and backgrounds.
Entrants—depicting pastoral landscapes, urban sprawls, cultural heritage, historical narratives and human stories—vied to be part of the Top 5 at the 36th edition of the Philippines’ most prestigious and longest-running national competition for watercolorists.
All the aquarelle paintings have been on display in an exhibit at Gallery Genesis—located at the Estancia Mall, Capitol Commons in Pasig City—since Sept. 20, when the winners and runners-up were unveiled.
Come’s “Ivatan Girl” was announced as one of five runners-up. The Top 5 were “Lambat ni Erpat, Sana Maka Jackpot” by MC Miller Andes; “Calle Luna Corner Quirino Blue Vigan City” by Benedict Arquero; “Panhik” by Mark Payawal; “Bagito” by Crispin Tuazon; and “Solitude” by Rolando Guina.
The exhibit is available for viewing daily, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., until Oct. 4.
Unpredictable art medium
Watercolor is among the oldest but toughest and most unpredictable art mediums. It takes true skill to manage it. One needs to consider how the colors interact with one another, as well as their canvas.
Thousands of artists who participated in the contest throughout the years gained more opportunities to blossom in their career. Some even managed to be part of the exclusive “Hall of Fame,” reserved for masters who win top honors thrice. Currently, the roll includes 21 people.
Through Kulay sa Tubig, Gallery Genesis helps artists hone their craft and push the envelope for visual art in the country. It aligns with the gallery’s longtime mission of highlighting Philippine talents for the world to see.
