Rhett Eala: From canvas to clothing - and back
MANILA, Philippines - Rhett Eala is the Pied Piper of fashion. No other designer has reached his level of impact in the two decades of his career. Hindy Tantoco opined during dinner last week, “He is truly one of the most influential designers.” Think of the Shantung silk craze and the even more manic poncho craze. I told Rhett that he’d made it when there were archipelago shirts for dogs showing up in Cash & Carry.
Rhett Eala now brings his Midas touch to Silverlens. Entitled “Divides,” Eala’s latest show indulges his lifelong passion for painting. Being a close friend of his, I know how private Rhett is about working with this medium. “I attended the Hong Kong art fair and felt so inspired being there that I decided to go back to my roots,” he says of unveiling his life-long passion. “Divides” is an extended dissertation of his fascination with the archipelago. In monochrome white, black and red versions, the paintings are an image play on his now iconic archipelago bursting into almost kaleidoscope-like patterns. His previous work, which remains private, uses the archipelago as Rorschach prints, undoubtedly serving as the stepping stone for his now more modern and slick take on imagery. There is a patriotic tone to his work that is not in your face, as the archipelago makes itself apparent in the subtlest way.
An artist talk and slideshow by Rhett Eala will be on Sept.15, Wednesday, 6 to 8 p.m. at Silverlens Gallery.
For inquiries, contact Silverlens Gallery at 2/F YMC Bldg. II, 2320 Pasong Tamo Ext., Makati, 816-0044, 0917-5874011, or manage@silverlensphoto.com. Gallery hours are Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturdays 1 to 6 p.m. www.silverlensphoto.com / slab.silverlensphoto.com.
