Sapience

As we welcome the next decade, buoyed by signs of hope, we are able to venture forth with some wisdom gained. Art history has shown us that tumultuous periods have led to a rise in new ways of thinking, often captured and furthered by artists. Hence we are on the precipice of a defining period that must be recorded, discussed and examined.

“Sapience” is a presentation of 41 artists working in painting, sculpture and other media: a survey of pervading ideas and sentiments reflecting our new realities. The works have embraced society’s pause in the frenetic pace of commercialized culture, letting go of the superfluous and unimportant. They tackle themes of adaptation, emerging roles of technology, evolving perceptions of space and time and finding sparks of humor in the mundane. Ultimately they are thoughtful celebrations of being alive.

Artists brim with positivity in knowing the human capacity to overcome: “To grow, to be free, to soar, and to be able to pivot even amidst the strongest of winds” (Anna Bautista). The act of creation itself has become a motive to persevere in daily struggles: “Painting gives one a reason to wake up” (Cris Villanueva). They invite deeper engagement in art: “My work encourages looking, and then looking slowly and deeply, allowing enough breathing space for meaning to materialize” (Bjorn Calleja).

Ranging from meditative introspection and personal narrative, social commentary and collective response, to simply more extensive experimentation with one’s craft, the works are both a mirror and a lens we use as a guide to navigate the future. Art in the Philippines has proven to continually thrive, and has sustained us during the most difficult species-wide challenge of this generation. There is great significance to this realization– one that shines a beacon of light as the human race prevails.

Stephanie Frondoso

FEATURED ARTISTS:

Angelo Quintos, Anna Bautista, Arvin Santos, Arvin Viola, Bembol Dela Cruz, Bjorn Calleja, Buboy Cañafranca, Ciane Xavier, Cris Villanueva, Dante Dizon, David Linarte, Denise Heredia, Gabby Prado, Gary Ross Pastrana, Geremy Samala, Jan Balquin, Jason Moss, Jon Red, Jono Pisano, Kiko Escora, Lourd de Vera, Manuel Ocampo, Mariano Ching, Marionne Contreras, Marlo Montoya, Miguel Lorenzo Uy, Miguel Nañawa, Juan Miguel Bermudez, Miles Villanueva, MM Yu, Noli Coronado, Pablo Biglang-awa, Paolo Icasas, Pow Martinez, Ranelle Dial, Raymond Gev, Romeo Lee, Van Tuico, Victor Balanon, WIPO, Zar.

This group exhibition was made possible thanks to a partnership with ARTBAR who have generously provided canvases for the artists.

Sapience is on view from January 23,2021 – February 20, 2021. 

To schedule a private viewing, send us an email at info@modeka.space or contact us at 0956 174 9185.

Explore the exhibition online on EXPERIENCES