To my beloved readers, kindly indulge this columnist by pausing for a minute (or so) and picture yourself in the great outdoors amidst fresh foliage and scenic landscapes (but before you close your eyes – be mindful in exploring the limits of your imagination). Then, breathe deeply and slowly open your eyes (while smiling). How do you feel?
Now, imagine yourself looking at a blank white page, or a white screen, or a blank canvass. What do you see?
Most probably, you will have varied perceptions and thoughts on what will compel you to compose in your very own blank canvass. However, I simply wanted to point out (through this brief exercise) that the state of wellbeing is a matter of mind. My singular intention was to make you understand how the aforementioned connects us with the environment and how it empowers our inner sanctum to be well – through the energy that connects us with nature.
To prove this theory, one young and promising artist was able to interpret such innate force which encouraged her first foray into the Manila art scene entitled “BIOPHILIA: Our Connection to Nature.”
“I’d like to encourage viewers to get in touch with their emotional side and tap into their imagination, pushing the envelope of what is seen and unseen by creating their own imagery using the idea that we are all connected in one way or another,” expressed Jewelle Yeung on the occasion marking her second solo art exhibition in her home country.
According to Jewelle, she spent her formative years between Hong Kong, Cebu and the United Kingdom. She moved to London in 2001 and graduated with a Bachelor of Fashion Design and Technology degree at the University of the Arts. In 2006, she graduated from The City and Guilds of London Art School with a Master’s degree in Fine Art (oil painting). Seven years ago, she returned to Asia to pursue her passion. Since then, Jewelle has exhibited her paintings in galleries in New York, Hong Kong and the Philippines.
The recent opening of her exhibit drew crowds from different parts of the world including Manila’s well-heeled art aficionados and patrons. Her works of art were beautifully curated by Collective 88 – an organization that aims to support and showcase emerging Filipino artists such as Jewelle. Their creative collaboration was inspiring and one that definitely elevated the local art scene.
A big shout out goes to Jewelle for opening to a sold out crowd on her first exhibition in Manila. Likewise, congratulations are in order for those who acquired her masterpieces. “I’d like them to feel liberated, that we are all organic products of life at the end of the day, uncontrollable and unstoppable,” explained the artist.
She added that, “Even in death, we continue to evolve… there is some sort of strength in that.” I must agree, there is a certain gush of energy and mystery that escalates when appreciating her opus (as depicted in the images in this Sunday’s column).
For the young and emerging artist, nature and emotion seem to be the driving force that inspire her to move forward with her creative pursuits – “Nature is never stagnant… constantly changing, this is the same for emotion, and they are both so powerful at the same time,” she shared.
The artist believes that nature and emotion go hand in hand, affirming that, “As long as I am near something living, I will continue to be inspired.”
Jewelle Yeung also told this columnist that she intends to do more shows in Manila and collaborate with other artists, be they painters, sculptors, light designers, and musicians. “My work is constantly evolving,” she says, laughing as she adds, “maybe a little bit too fast, as my style tends to change quite quickly.” She is also gratified to see that “the amount of creativity here is limitless and it would be interesting to see what happens next.”
As for this columnist, I have discovered that art is part of our entirety. And while appreciating its complexities makes us mindful – it is fundamental to a well-lived life. When in doubt, pause for a moment, then develop the desire to be one with art and one with nature. I am optimistic that you, too, will harness the same affinity with nature.
After Jewelle’s exhibit, many of her paintings will soon be on the private walls of collectors. Fortunately, you can still view (and be one with art) the “Biophilia” paintings until March 9 at A Space Gallery located at the 5th floor of Aboitiz Building, 110 Legazpi Street, Makati City.
Follow me on Twitter or Instagram @francis_deleon8 or email [email protected].
Photos by Star Sabroso