Exhibitions

For “Quintessential Collab”, Michael Cacnio integrates works by some of the biggest names in Philippine art in his sculptures— National Artist Federico Aguilar Alcuaz, Presidential Medal of Merit Awardee Juvenal Sanso, Angelito Antonio and Norma Belleza, to name a few. These works represent a major phase in the career of this noted sculptor, whose mastery of brass and bronze as a medium redefined what can be done with folk-Filipiniana-genre imagery.

The collaborations are an ideal opportunity to survey works by renowned artists displayed in a unique way through Cacnio’s distinct style, be re-acquainted with the country’s top painters and sculptors, present a fresh perspective to a wider range of audience, and rediscover visibility and promote social integration of these Modern and Contemporary Masters.

This collaborative effort is due to a unique understanding of the temperament of important Filipino art – precisely handpicked as they are considered the most sought-after artists in the Philippines. The exhibition is a showcase of these unprecedented series of integrated works by the cream-of-the-crop of Philippine modernist masters.

The junction of personalities, proficiencies, styles, and experiences contributes to a diverse body of work that addresses several different motifs that appeals even to the most discerning collector. The collaborations itself are significant for the divides of style, art form, geography and discipline, which it bridged. Conjointly, the works address conversation, an exploration of Cacnio’s depictions of the tableaux scenes in an emotional and intellectual level.

The notable and ambitious goal of this exhibit involves a rethinking of the role of the artist, the audience and the artistic work, considerably rediscovering the traditional conception of art and its relevance and significance in Philippine culture. These artworks are representative of Cacnio’s commitment to art and the Modern Masters he personally respects, solidifying each of these artist’s position in the present era.

This major exhibition of sculptures will showcase one-of-a-kind pieces synonymous to the importance of collaborative endeavors and movements within the art community. Cacnio carefully ensures that these “artists-at-work” sculptures highlight both his and the collaborating artists’ work. His candid depictions of the tableaux scenes of Philippine genre has been noted by critics as representing the best of genre in sculptural form.

Michael Cacnio steadily built his reputation for passionate and consistent depictions of social realities in his art. His skill in creating provocative brass spectacles out of real-life quotidian scenes has earned him accolades from a host of prestigious organizations over the years. His many achievements include a 2006 Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) Award, sold-out exhibits in the international art market, and the rare distinction of being the first Filipino artist ever to showcase his work at the Headquarters of the European Commission at the Berlaymont Building in Brussels. All his accomplishments have thus earned him a venerable slot in the pantheons of Philippine sculpture.

“Quintessential Collab” will showcase works by Michael Cacnio in collaboration with National Artist Federico Aguilar Alcuaz, National Artist Abdulmari Imao, Presidential Medal of Merit Awardee Juvenal Sanso, Angel Cacnio, Ramon Orlina, Angelito Antonio, Norma Belleza, Romulo Olazo, Raul Lebajo, Justin Nuyda, and Mauro Malang from February 21 to 24, 2019 at the North Court of Power Plant Mall, and from February 25 to 29 at the Galerie Joaquin Pop-Up gallery, R1 level, New Wing of Power Plant Mall, Makati City. For inquiries, contact Galerie Joaquin at (+63)917 534 3942 or (+63)2 7239253 or email info@galeriejoaquin.com.