The boundless curiosity of man sparked a mad rush to understand, and eventually exploit, his connection to the cosmos. Speculative thoughts were born, including astrology, which, of course, centers on man’s link to the stars.
Another form, however, focused on transforming base metals, such as lead or copper into something more precious like silver or gold. It also sought ways to extend life and attain eternal bliss. In 12 century Latin Europe, the practice was named alchemy.
According to Encyclopaedia Britannica, both astrology and alchemy “have always been pursued in the belief that the processes human beings witness in heaven and on Earth manifest the will of the Creator and, if correctly understood, will yield the key to the Creator’s intentions.”
How alchemists utilize select materials to create something that will stand the test of time presents parallels with the artistic process. Are artists then the alchemists of our time? Britannica strengthens the impression, stating that the “Greeks, Chinese and Indians usually referred to what Westerners call alchemy as ‘The Art,’ or by terms denoting change or transmutation.”
In any case, the idea supplies the premise of Arte Bettina’s curtain-raiser for the year—a group show titled Alchemy, featuring some of the top names in Philippine nonfigurative art. The show opened last week at the gallery’s space in Greenbelt 5, and will run until February 2.
The exhibition flourishes in the richness of the presented style and on the level of individual execution by both new and established artists. Alchemy takes the viewer from running along, beneath and above the many lines of Jay Ragma in Red Pillars, to figuring in the geometry and textures of J Consunji in Takbo V, to losing form and gaining life and color in Sal Ponce Enrile’s Phantasma.
Also part of the group show are Andre Baldovino, Fitz Herrera, Binong Javier, Niccolo Jose and Rico Lascano. Meneline Wong is a participating artist as well, together with Marlon Magbanua, Coeli Manese, Dennis Morante, Josep Pascual, Michael Pastorizo, Eddie Santillan and Kenneth Montegrande, who has pledged to donate 20 percent of his earnings to the victims of the Taal Volcano eruption.
According to Arte Bettina owner Atty. Leonides David, Alchemy showcases a diversified mix of talents in terms of style and experience level.
“What we have is here is variety of techniques, methodologies and colors. They’re all taking on abstraction, but they approach it in different angles,” he said. “We also have young and promising artists together with more established ones.”
David said that presenting a mix of young and veteran artists is something they plan to maintain throughout the year. They also intend to showcase works from masters and foreign artists.
“This year, we will go conceptual, abstract, modern and configuration,” he said. “It will cover everything.”
• More information is available at info@artebettina.com or www.artebettina.com.