“Modern Parlance” consists of works on canvas and paper exhibiting, as the title indicates, the modernist idiom that Angelito Antonio, among the first batch of Thirteen Artists awardees of the Cultural Center of the Philippines, has been known for. But having found recovery and release from medical ailments, Antonio endows his recent works with a celebratory exhibit as indicated in his color palette. The figures, while frontally oriented as always, are also rendered in a freer, less controlled style.

The works on paper are notable, since, according to the artist, they record everyday moments of his journey back to health and wellness. “The events are depicted in planes of bold, layered strokes that evoke what he expresses as the fullness of his life he feels as an artist,” said art writer Grace Ng.

“Lito Antonio is one of the last few living modernist masters of Philippine art,” said Jack Teotico, managing director of Galerie Joaquin.

“What he has done for ‘Modern Parlance’ is take his 55 years of experience as a visual artist to revisit old themes (such as vendors, cock fighters, and mother and child motifs) and offer a fresh take on these subjects.”

‘Ethereal Heritage’

Also showing at Galerie Joaquin (3rd Level, The Podium) is Joseph Albao’s “Ethereal Heritage,” depicting genteel Filipino life. Subjects and characters are lifted by the artist from representative works of National Artists Fernando Amorsolo and Carlos “Botong” Francisco.

Born in Malabon, Albao studied fine arts at Batangas State University and has won a slew of national art awards. —CONTRIBUTED

“Modern Parlance” by Angelito Antonio is on view at Art Lounge Podium until Oct. 11 with artist’s reception on Oct. 15 at 6 p.m. “Ethereal Heritage” by Joseph Albao will be on view Oct. 16-26 at Galerie Joaquin with the artist’s reception scheduled for Oct. 16 at 6 p.m. The Podium is on ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City.