Francis Nacion and Carlo Ongchangco at Galerie Francesca

MANILA, Philippines - In Carlo Ongchangco and Francis Nacion’s latest exhibition at Galerie Francesca, the juxtaposed idea of random precision has resulted in paintings and portraitures that examine each character within a narrative scope.

Titled “Mise-en-scène,” the show, which opens tomorrow at Galerie Francesca in Alabang, features new works totally capture the essential purity of the respective artists.

The foundation of Carlo Ongchangco’s practice remains his preference for what is “cute,” though on closer inspection one can see various layers of depth within the canvas. Ongchangco uses aspects of magic realism to convey narratives in “one-shot” paintings, with some of the works being circular to reflect the audience’s status as an observer in the artist’s world. Populated by a hodgepodge of fairy tale characters and pop culture figures, the paintings are rendered in the artist’s characteristic “anime” style. In this exhibit, Ongchangco tackles portraitures, with each portrait no less narrative in style.

The paintings of Francis Nacion, on the other hand, are known for being bright and lively, while still retaining elements that are both visually arresting and beautifully haunting. Nacion compositions are playful, drawing on the traditions folk belief, mythology, and fairy tales. Throughout his career, however, his approach remains the same: to use tales passed on by the elderly in the provinces and render them in playful visualizations. But in “Mise-en-scene,” Nacion attempts to mimic the candidness evoked by photography. He considers photos as pictographic moments that capture real emotions.

The show is on view until Sept. 20 at Galerie Francesca, 3L Unit 2B-3B Treasure Trove, Festival Supermall, Filinvest Corporate City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City.

For information, call 659-2667 and 570-9495, email galeriefrancesca001@yahoo.com.ph, galeriefrancesca.mega@gmail.com and info@galeriefrancesca.com.