MANILA, Philippines - Inspired by the works of the Late Gothic artist Heironymous Bosch and Italian Renaissance painter Caravaggio, Gulf state-based artist Gilbert Semillano mounts “Mystical Realm,” which opens on July 31 at Galerie Stephanie.
The show features 20 artworks presenting a mystical and mythical world created from the artist’s fertile imagination. Known for his dexterous and highly skilled technique, Semillano invites the viewer to enter a creative universe peopled by jolting creatures and extraordinary sceneries that defy conventions. Semillano’s art is deeply rooted in a highly narrative approach that taps into the depths of his subconscious to evoke an imagery layered from multiple literary allusions and allegorical references.
Semillano possesses great technique, crafting the imagery with a highly skilled approach. One will find his oeuvre as more aligned to a Mannerist’s fixation with allegory. There are many similarities between, say, Semillano’s “Fragile Sensibilities I” with the almost-Catholic allusion to the Sacred Heart, and Caravaggio’s “Amor Vincit Omnia,” as the image of Cupid watches over all human endeavors.
The show is on view until Aug. 14.
Galerie Stephanie is at Unit 1B, Parc Plaza Bldg,183 E.Rodriguez Jr. Ave, Libis, Quezon City. For information, call 709-1488, email info@galeriestephanie.com, or visit www.galeriestephanie.com.