While the image that many tourists might have of the Philippines is bright and sunny, a look at Filipino artist Leslie de Chavez’s work might change this for you. Exclusively represented by Arario Gallery since 2006, one of the main themes of de Chavez’s work is examining the problems in Filipino society. Previously, his art has dealt with various topics ranging from history to imperialism, education and more. His cynicism is evident in the dark shadows prevalent in his work, and his figures are often drawn with blackened eyes. Case in point is an oil painting on display at the Arario of two male heads in a pot. Both of the men’s eyes are closed and there is a look of pain on their faces. In an interview with Manila’s Museum of Contemporary Art and Design late last year, Chavez explained: “To me, it’s important, particularly in the Philippines, that you respond to your surroundings as an artist. When the price of gasoline goes up, when there’s traffic. or a political scandal or an economic crisis, you aren’t exempted from these as an artist. When my work is shown outside the Philippines, I see myself as a messenger, as a storyteller.”
PHOTOGRAPHS: COURTESY OF THE ARTIST AND ARARIO GALLERY