Exhibitions

Artists Milmar Onal and Francis Evangelista come together to celebrate the beauty of nature through works that feature vivid palettes and bold brushstrokes. This dialogue in color suggests a visual conversation, not only between the two artists, but also their chosen visual elements: land forms and trees.

In the context of art and thematic exploration, the commonalities of their chosen subjects reflect their own deep connection to nature. By deconstructing the elements of the natural world, both Onal and Evangelista present a reimagined reality - serene yet playful, simple but complex.

The exhibit also offers an opportunity for contemplation, opening up several avenues for interpretation. More than just mirroring our external world, forests and landscapes can be seen as metaphors of life —journeys, growth, facing the unknown, reminiscing and remembering past experiences, or even as a state of mind.

Visual artist Milmar Ignacio B. Onal received his degree in Fine Arts Major in Painting from the University of Santo Tomas(UST). Aside from participating in multiple exhibits, he also worked for TV and theater productions. Onal also took a course at the ITC (Institute of Technological Courses) under UST’s Department of Engineering that led him to develop a practice inspired from electrical flow and circuitry. Milmar Onal’s minimalist art pieces, such as his abstract landscapes, communicate a sense of simplicity in visually describing places and figures.

Francis G. Evangelista is a self-taught artist from Rizal. From his formative years, the artist gained a passionate interest in the arts primarily influenced by his grandfather, who was an arc designer for the traditional Santacruzan. Strengthening his passion, he started painting in high school and graduated from the University of Rizal System, with his works inspired by the Honorable National Artist Fernando Amorsolo. He continued to shape and hone his craft by becoming a professional art teacher and conducting exclusive lessons for selected students. He’s a member of the Artipolo Group Inc. based in Antipolo, Rizal, and has actively participated in notable art competitions.

“Among the Trees, Beyond the Hills: A Dialogue in Color” will be on view at Galerie Joaquin Podium from April 11-24, 2025. Galerie Joaquin Podium is located on the 3rd Level, The Podium, ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City. For more information, contact +63 926 722 7925, or email podium.galeriejoaquin@gmail.com.