It’s been a dizzying series of work-related meetings and events through the past few weeks so when the invitation to the opening of Conrad Manila’s 30th instalment of its Of Art and Wine events came in, I made sure I’d go. I needed the leisurely breather to be with friends, aside from the fact that I know one of the featured artists.
Named Interchange, the exhibit presents 32 new art pieces by Rico Lascano and my friend, Ross Capili, reflecting on the shifting dynamics of nature and the enduring sense of wonder it evokes.
Ross Capili’s masterpieces are predominantly inspired by his love for music and nature, very evident in his art which creates a captivating fusion of the two. On the other hand, Rico Lascano’s body of work captures the essence of Zen Buddhism, fostering calm and contemplation among viewers.
Going over the entire spread of masterpieces by both artists, I immediately noticed the stark difference between the styles of each artist. Capili’s passion for music can be seen in his brushstrokes, which depict the rhythm of rain and wind, as well as the vibrant crescendo of colors in bloom. His art pieces have metallic orbs that symbolize the sun and the moon overseeing the portrayed eternal and universal harmony.
Among his many attractive artworks I like most the one labeled “Sunset Melody,” (shown on this page) a colorful piece made of acrylic on shaped canvas, with engraved plexiglass and a golden stainless sphere right in the center.
The subdued colors of Lascano’s art pieces portray nature as serene, inviting internal reflection and deep contemplation. Practically devoid of color, yet suffused with light, looking at his artwork put me into a meditative repose highlighting nature’s intrinsic characteristics as something inherently spiritual.
To me, what stands out among his soothing-to-look-at masterpieces is the trio of “Quietude VI, Quietude VII, Quietude VIII,” (as shown on this page) made of mixed media on cold press Strathmore paper. They made for a very relaxing view that forever-on-the-go urbanites like me, would like to look at.
The evening’s program started with Conrad Manila’s General Manager, Fabio Berto, reiterating the hotel’s commitment to promoting our country’s art and culture through its Of Art and Wine series which is now on its 30th edition. He further stressed that these events have been mounted for their hotel guests and art patrons to experience the interchange of emotions that nature evokes through artworks.
The traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony had GM Fabio Berto, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) president Elizabeth Sy, artists Ross Capili and Rico Lascano, and Nelson Guevarra, Board Member of the Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FCCCI). SMHCC executive vice-president Peggy Angeles made the celebratory toast to the talented artists.
Interchange on Gallery C on the 3rd floor of the hotel is open to the public until Aug. 3 this year. More information on Conrad Manila’s art collection and its other offerings is available at www.conradmanila.com or at +632 8833 999.
For feedback, I’m at bobzozobrado@gmail.com
