The world-renowned Filipino artist Ramon Orlina has been impressing the world with his impeccable creations since he first ventured into the field of Fine Arts in 1975. Exuding unparalleled beauty, Orlina pieces are wonderfully carved gems capable of enthralling anyone with its charm.
To mark his 40th year as an artist, Orlina presents a wonderful spectacle of 23 masterpieces in his “Clear Impressions” exhibit at the Reflections Gallery in Museo Orlina, Tagaytay.
For four decades, Orlina has continually created striking and impactful works of art. In his latest display, the pieces are made of clear optical glass, as opposed to his signature green and colored glass sculptures. The intricacy required to come up with a piece is unimaginable. The transparent nature of glass requires Orlina to take at least 26 angles into consideration, as the piece needs to look flawless on all sides.
To quote renowned art critic Cid Reyes, “First, it is clear to see that the supreme beauty of these works reside(s) in the crystalline purity of the medium, which allows for no visual hindrances or distraction in the reflection and refraction of light.” Surely, the clarity of the material allows each piece to emanate different visual effects based on the environment. With that said, it is a fantastic visual treat to behold some of Orlina’s glass sculptures are placed against beautiful paintings.
As you go around Museo Orlina, you will not just be greeted by glass sculptures, you will also get a deeper understanding of the artist based on his choice of medium and themes. The whole museum reflects his character, his journey, and the things he’s passionate about. Like his preferred material, Orlina is undeniably transparent in sharing the stories behind his works.
Apart from the obvious, Ramon Orlina is passionate about his family. He always talks about them with great pride in his voice. His love for his family can certainly be felt through his works. In fact, the famous “Ning Ning” series was created when his wife was breastfeeding. Hence, the sculptures were all centered on breasts. Two sculptures his daughters made in collaboration with him were added to the “Clear Impressions” exhibit.
It is also known to many that Ramon Orlina is into cars. In the museum, you will see books about automotives and two vintage cars that were turned into art pieces by the national artist Benedicto “BenCab” Cabrera in collaboration with Orlina.
The “Father of Philippine Glass Sculpture” has won many awards such as TOFIL (The Outstanding Filipino) and has been the creator of many monumental works like the 10.32-meters high “Quattromondial” sculpture made for his alma mater, the University of Santo Tomas.
This holiday season, all art enthusiasts can enjoy the cold weather and get their fill of art when they visit Museo Orlina in Tagaytay City to witness Ramon Orlina’s 40-year journey as an artist.
The “Clear Impressions” exhibit will run until January 16, 2016. For inquiries, please contact Museo Orlina at (046) 413-2581 or mobile +63 906-4340862.
