Ram Mallari’s metal sculptures in “Battle Royale” at Art Lounge Manila derive from both popular electronic gaming culture and the deep-seated warlike mentality that seems to undergird the not-so-innocent computer games where almost always death and destruction are celebrated.

According to art writer, Mallari in his works seems to “convey that, with the geopolitical tensions in various parts of the world today, it is a good time for the audience to take a deeper look at the idea of conflict, the issues of dispute and the weapons being used, so much so that it is also high time to think about their resolution.”

Similarly, “Taishindan” (meaning “raiding brigade”), an exhibition at Galerie Joaquin at the U.P. Town Center of sculptures by Richard Buxani, tackles war and destruction.

The sculptures depict raging battles of Samurai warriors.

“The show is about inner conflicts, how we view loyalty and submission to wars,” Buxani explained.

“Battle Royale” is on view until Oct. 9 at Art Lounge Manila (G/L of The Podium, ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City; tel. 0917-5343942 or 02-2182831), with the artist’s reception and formal launch of “Ironheart,” a coffee-table book on Mallari, on Oct. 3 at 6 p.m. —CONTRIBUTED

“Taishindan” is on view up to Oct. 10, with the artist’s reception on Oct. 2 at 6 p.m., at Galerie Joaquin, 2/F, Phase 2, U.P. Town Center, Katipunan Ave, Diliman, Quezon City; tel. 02-2471109; email [email protected].