Exhibitions

Change is the one constant in nature. The process that changes an unsightly caterpillar into a beautiful butterfly, for instance, is in equal parts dramatic and alluring. The day turning to night is likewise a beautiful progression that builds on the changing atmosphere and environment, as the soft light of the morning changes into the bright colors and hues of the midday, into the haunting temperament of dusk, and finally the sweet songs of the night. It is a metamorphosis, so to speak—a concept that has played on the minds of generations of artists.

This idea of change in nature (metamorphosis comes from the Greek words meta, meaning change, and morphe, meaning form) is particularly ripe for the particular aesthetics of art nouveau. With it’s clean lines, clear shapes, and strong colors, the idea of change in nature plays out as if on a stained-glass window. Artist Antonio Pacheco Daleon III (b. 1971) is a master of this style, having built an oeuvre on the best traditions of the 1920’s German secession movement, Alphonse Mucha, and Gustav Klimt. A product of the University of Santo Tomas, Daleon’s works have been featured in a number of published materials like The Collection of Ageless Arts in 2006 and Philart International Edition in 2007.

His latest works that draw upon the concept of change in nature will be displayed in his latest one-man exhibit, entitled “Metamorphosis,” which runs from Thursday, June 18 to Sunday, June 28 at Galerie Joaquin Podium. Galerie Joaquin Podium is located at the Lower Ground Level of The Podium Mall, ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City. For more information, please call (+632) 634-7954, or email podium.galeriejoaquin@gmail.com. You may also visit www.galeriejoaquin.com

Daleon is one of the more prolific artists in the country today. His works have been exhibited in numerous art exhibits in the Philippines and abroad, including shows in Caracas, Venezuela and Washington DC, USA. His work has been cited by art critics as a prime example of Philippine “Mood Art,” bringing to his collectors a feeling of energy and positivity.

His works are primarily inspired by the nuances of butterflies. "Just like the beauty I see on the wings of butterflies, I see an integration of realistic and abstract elements in my works,” the artist says. “I paint through an emotion of joy and optimism, deeply respecting nature.”

You see this approach in works such as “A Floral Lullaby,” bringing the clarity of lines in complete harmony with the floating butterflies, flowers and leaves. The morning sun, bringing energy and dynamism to the work, lights the garden scene brightly. In contrast, “Twilight Sonata,” shows the artist’s command of subtlety, depicting the fleeting nature of dusk in a manner that calms the soul.

The works on exhibit represent the artist’s 9th solo show. Such longevity in the art scene isn’t surprising, given the artist’s standing with both critics and collectors. The exhibit, however, represent perhaps the pinnacle of his artistic achievement. The works are of a high quality that few artists are loath to match.