Ladies festooned with flowers. Faces painted in vibrant hues and psychedelic patterns. Women crowned with fantastic headdresses. Whether the patterns follow a tribal design, or inspired by an imaginative free-flowing scheme, the latest painting series of artist Ginny Guanco depicts a conspicuous and unabashed display of energy, brio, and an unmistakable joie de vivre.
Guanco features these masterpieces in her one-woman show Festival at the Gateway Gallery in Araneta City. The exhibit, which opened on May 20, showcases 25 original paintings interpreted in a variety of mediums, some of which Guanco created during the lockdowns brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Through my works in this exhibit, I aim to depict the festive spirit and joyous disposition of the Filipino, amidst the most trying situations. We have seen so much darkness, so many shadows, because of the ravaging effects of the pandemic. The loss of lives and livelihood are realities we must face and accept. But I think that by putting on the light, by wearing the vibrant colors of joy, we can transition much more easily into a future that’s full of potential and promise. And Filipinos are resilient because of our ability to look forward and hope for better times ahead. Festival is my tribute to the indomitable Filipino spirit,” Guanco explains.
Guanco’s love for the feminine form stems from her childhood passion for drawing female faces and figures. She would dress up these drawings in different fashionable clothes according to particular themes. In school, she relentlessly pursued this passion by joining art contests and even winning on many occasions.
Festival is Guanco’s 2nd solo exhibit, following Boho Chic in 2016 where she displayed her unabashed fondness for Bohemian fashion.
After the success of her first solo show, she branched out into making personalized, hand-painted bags. Aside from her regular floral subjects, clients would request her to draw their portraits on the bags. To date, she has done hundreds of bags by hand which she has sold, and which she still continues to do.
Guanco’s various explorations and experimentations with an art show her open-minded eagerness to evolve as an artist. And Festival is proof that her passion to create beauty can never be dulled by the passing of years.
Festival is on view at the Gateway Gallery until tomorrow, June 2.
