Federico Aguilar Alcuaz’s ‘Essential Abstracts’ at Galerie Joaquin

MANILA, Philippines -  Federico Aguilar Alcuaz is one of the country’s foremost masters, whose artistic practice not only demonstrated his vast talent, but also established the depths of his intellect. A titan of the Modernist Era of Philippine art history, his often perplexing behavior only served to establish a legendary artistic career. Declared a National Artist by both the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) in 2009, Aguilar Alcuaz’s status will soon be confirmed by the President of the Philippines.

The first exhibition of this important artist after his confirmation as National Artist will be held at Galerie Joaquin in San Juan. Appropriately titled “Essential Abstracts: National Artist Federico Aguilar Alcuaz,” the exhibition will showcase abstract works culled from the artist’s own personal collection. The works demonstrate the lyrical quality of his practice, showcasing the artist’s mastery of harmony and balance. The never-before-seen works are far more intricate than what the public has already seen, making this exhibition a must-view for anyone interested in Philippine art history.

Recognized by many local and international award-giving bodies, the artist has won first prize at the Premio Moncada in 1957; the 1958 Prix Francisco Goya in Barcelona; first prize at the Pintura Sant Pol del Mar in 1961; second prize at the Premio Vancell at the Fourth Biennial of Tarrasa in Barcelona in 1964; awarded the Diploma of Honor at the International Exhibition of Art Libre in 1961; received the decoration of Arts, Letters and Sciences award from the French government in 1964; the Order of French Genius in 1964; and awarded by the Philippine government with the Presidential Medal of Merit award for his outstanding accomplishments in visual arts in 2007.

Alcuaz’s works are included in the collection of some 20 museums and major cultural institutions in the world today, including the Museum of Contemporary Art in Barcelona, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Madrid, the Gulvenkian Foundation Museum of London, the Museum of Modern Art of Warsaw, the Museum of Modern Art of Krakow, and the Philips Cultural Museum of the Netherlands.

“Essential Abstracts: National Artist Federico Aguilar Alcuaz” opens on Wednesday, Sept. 17, at 6 p.m. Galerie Joaquin is at 371 P. Guevarra Street corner Montessori Lane, Addition Hills, San Juan. For information, call 723-9418 or email info@galeriejoaquin.com.