The Renaissance Art Gallery proudly presents the much-awaited showcase of National Artist Arturo Rogerio Luz titled Streamlined: The National Artist Arturo Luz Exhibition.
This exhibition presents the primary virtues that distinguished Luz from his contemporaries: linear and geometric designs, minimalist concepts, and execution with superlative technical skill and finesse.
Luz’s work is renowned for stripping Philippine art of its excesses in color and form, as seen in his classic subjects—cyclists, musicians, performers, still lifes, and depictions of Asian cities and architecture.
Curated by Cid Reyes, all the works on display are authentic and original, supplied with written and visual documentation. The exhibition is on view until July 13 at the Art Center, 4/F SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.
Arturo Luz began drawing at 17 and continued until his death, with drawing as the foundation of his art. His work is known for its linear strength and elegance, featuring themes like cyclists, acrobats, musicians, performers, ancient pottery, and Asian architecture, inspired by a New Year’s Eve scene in the 1950s.
The celebrated artist studied in Oakland and at the Brooklyn Museum Art School, where he admired Rufino Tamayo. While his early works reflected Tamayo’s influence, Luz developed his own linear and geometric style marked by disciplined design.
In the 1960s, Luz explored collage and sculpture, embracing the “less is more” principle. His sculptures, inspired by pre-Hispanic deities, utilized materials like Philippine hardwood and bronze, and he experimented with burlap, handmade paper, and jewelry.
His travels inspired the Cities of the Past series, depicting Asian temples, forts, and palaces. Despite numerous managerial roles, Luz maintained a prolific artistic output and received many awards, including National Artist in 1997.
Luz continued innovating, debuting large-scale sculptures in 2009. Praised for his eloquent and clear treatment of both Philippine and universal themes, he remained humble, finding his greatest satisfaction in creating art. He passed away on May 26, 2021.