Exhibitions

The observation of “Semana Santa” or holy week dates back to the 16th century when the Catholic Church decided to make the story of the Passion of Christ one that the ordinary people could not only participate in, but thoroughly understand and get involved with. In the Philippines, this week-long commemoration of Christ’s journey to the cross includes several rites that conjure a sense of atonement and repentance, marking it as one of the most reverential and reflective periods in the liturgical calendar.

Celebrating the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, Galerie Joaquin presents a prolific collection of works by distinguished roster of artists featuring themes that intend to recollect His great sacrifice. Focusing on various concepts and contours of religious imagery, the exhibition brings sanctified reflections on faith, love, and piety––distinctively portrayed through reimagined visual narratives.

Highlighting the emotional resonance of Jovan Benito’s whimsical portrayals of the crucified Christ is Eduardo Castrillo’s brass renditions of the famous symbol. Benito’s playful and eccentric features contrast that of Castrillo’s poised and elegant assemblages without taking earnestness away from it. On the other hand, Randy Roa’s gestural depictions of the sorrowful Christ is brooding yet humanizing; a virtuous repositioning of despair and agony that complements Mario Parial’s works which center around the muses in Jesus’ life.

Spiritually charged and deeply introspective, Semana Santa is a momentous exhibition that focuses on recollection; a shared moment of solemn remembrance of the divine.

“Semana Santa” features works by renowned artists: Jovan Benito, Eduardo Castrillo, Nixxio Castrillo, Katrina Cuenca, Mario Parial, and Randy Roa.

“Semana Santa” will be on view from March 31 - April 11, 2023 at Galerie Joaquin Rockwell. The gallery is located at R3 Level, Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Center, Makati. For inquiries, contact Galerie Joaquin at +63 915 414 5502 or email galeriejoaquinrockwell@gmail.com