The Art House, a creative multi-channel platform, has partnered with the Fernando C. Amorsolo Foundation to commemorate the 50th death anniversary of the “Grand Old Man of Philippine Art” through HIRAYA, an exhibit of 50 Filipino artists inspired by the works of Amorsolo on October 21-23, 2022 at the South Court of the Power Plant Mall, Rockwell, Makati City.
The works on idyllic Philippine life by National Artist Amorsolo have become a symbol of Filipino life and culture to the world—paintings of illuminated landscapes portraying pastoral Filipino life and deemed important to the formation of Filipino national identity. He was honored as the first recipient of the Order of National Artists of the Philippines almost immediately after his death in 1972.
Tam Austria, ‘Tres Marias,’ oil on canvas, “15” x 15″
JC Intal, ‘Homage to Amorsolo,’ oil on canvas, collage in resin with sculptural frame, 3ft x 2ft
The Art House is celebrating his legacy by inviting 50 artists like Martin Honasan, Tam Austria, even including those from Amorsolo’s own family, and personalities like Solenn Heussaff and JC Intal who have created their unique interpretations of the National Artist’s visual and artistic style. This highlights The Art House’s drive to poignantly tell the tale of our rich artistic culture to help reconnect the younger generation to the origins of Philippine art.
“The styles span the wide, eclectic range based on what the artist is comfortable with, inspired by Amorsolo pieces or the Amorsolo style, or inspired by the Maestro himself and his journey as an artist,” explains Carlos Pineda, the head of The Art House.
Anton Reyes Jr., ‘Gin Angel,’ acrylic on canvas, 28″ x 22″
“For instance, Martin Honasan was inspired by a portrait of Amorsolo and used his mixed media style superimposed on his piece,” Pineda says. “Solenn was inspired by the late Amorsolo’s view of Philippine landscape (rice fields and trees) vis a vis Solenn’s view of contemporary Filipino life, the ordinary Filipino urban migrant and his/her hard-up life in the city. Anton Reyes was inspired by the maestro’s work on the liquor brand seen in every sari- sari and convenience store today.”
This also marks the beginning of the long-term partnership of The Art House and the Fernando C. Amorsolo Foundation. The partnership is meant to introduce emerging artists to the growing young investor market and in the process, promote the Filipino artist and Filipino culture.
An Amorsolo has commanded good prices in the global art market, reaching a record of $882,251 for Mango Gatherers sold in 2018.
“The iconic role of the Maestro is really to inspire and challenge the emerging artists to take the road less travelled and put their true talent to the test. Art House’s role is to allow these artists have access to the new and young art investors,” Pineda says.
Anita del Rosario, ‘Dalagang Bukid,’ Mother of pearl, copper and resign on wood, 30.5″ x 15.5″ x 10.5″
Art House collaborated with Zonta Club of Makati and Environs Foundation, Inc. to promote the limited edition Amorsolo plates produced for the show. This is Art House’s support of women empowerment.
Jun Impas, ‘Wash Day,’ oil on canvas, 2ft x 3ft
An invitational opening reception of HIRAYA is held in the South Court area of the Power Plant Mall (near ZARA) on Oct. 21, 2022, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. It is open to the public from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. and from October 22-23, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The exhibit will be for the benefit of the victims of Typhoon Odette through the ABS-CBN Foundation.
Annie Amorsolo Abelardo-Reodica, ‘Harvest I,’ watercolor, 20″ x 15″
Derrick Macutay, ‘My Fowl Devotion,’ oil on canvas, 2ft x 3 ft
For more information, please contact Rechel Gaspar at The Art House at +63 969 106 1290 and [email protected]
