The collaboration between Asian Cultural Council Philippines Foundation and León Gallery showcases 17 works of the country’s most significant artists
Visual art has always been an instrument to forward one’s identity and culture. From an abstract expression to a realistic movement, this art form has always offered a newfound appreciation and understanding of what it means to be Filipino. This year, Asian Cultural Council and León Gallery continue this legacy by gathering notable art pieces for the ACC Auction 2023.
Historical impact
The event will commence with Anita Magsaysay-Ho’s “Fruit Market,” a work that showcases the artist’s two domains—social realism and post-cubism. This also paints the image of women at the forefront, a common theme in the late artist’s collection.
Works of Félix Resurrección Hidalgo, Félix Martínez y Lorenzo, and Fabián de la Rosa underscore the brush stroke technique of capturing the gilded age details of their respective paintings.
Craftsmanship involved in silver and ivory masonry are also evident in the The Despujol Dagger and Ivory Niño on Wooden Crib, respectively. The former carries a dedication to Sr. Don Ramon Espujol, Rizal’s informant of his Dapitan exile.
The auction’s homage to Rizal continues further with Fernando Amorsolo’s “Elias and Salome,” a visual interpretation of Noli Me Tangere’s lost chapter.
Modern appreciation
While the works of Ocampo, Zobel, Rodriguez, and Saguil made use of the geometric elements of mid-century modern art, Manansala’s cubism expertise as seen on “Baguio Nose-Flute Players” will also be up for bid in the said exhibit.
Those who have an eye on minimalism and contemporary art will recognize the artistry of Leo Valledor, Lao Lianben, Elmer Borlongan, and Jaime De Guzman.
Director León Gallery Jaime Ponce de Leon gladly expressed the greater purpose of the auction for the Filipino artists. “Our partnership with the ACC Foundation reflects our shared belief in the world-class talents of the Filipino artist—and the Philippine artistic eco-system.” Since 2015, 41 Filipino artists like Winner Jumalon, Aze Ong, Leeroy New, Nicky Luna, as well as curators KingKong Art Projects and Joselina Cruz have pursued grants abroad to expand their studies, discourse, and criticism on different media.
The ACC Auction 2023 will be held on February 18 at the Eurovilla I Sale Rooms.
