Lito Carating weaves his web

A great Indian sage has compared the act of the world’s creation to a spider weaving his web from within, and then living in the midst of it. This metaphor describes how Lito Carating has, from an interior descent into himself, emerged to create a sanctuary of large walls, with layers and layers of metallic acrylic: Gold, copper and bronze. Within these walls he sits, enigmatic and mysterious, a deity in his own universe, reflecting the hues and their movements, the under layers of shapes that dance in the light.

Asked for an artist’s message, he retorts with a dismissive laugh, lifting an eyebrow to his artwork: "Aren’t these enough?" On your first sight of two gold canvases, 5X7 meters, your answer would be yes.

They are large in order to encompass and protect the artist, these pools of solid hues which he calls his "refuge." You sink into the shimmer and shadow, the greens are comforting; the golds alight on your skin, the silvers and bronzes are equally beckoning. Lured into Carating’s universe and leaving reality behind, you understand that these reflecting sheaths do not only enfold you, they can mirror your dreams, or tell you what is hidden in your mind.

The lurking figures in the light, are they ghosts or dancers from the past or some portend to a future event? Are they shadows at the bottom of a wishing well? There is whimsy, there is play, but when you scrutinize them in terms of technique, there is nothing capricious in these paintings. The paint is applied solid and thick, four layers and more of iridescent acrylic that Carating has been experimenting with over the years. The work requires not only artistic sensibility, but it also brawn, coordination and daring. He works with implements he has fashioned himself, using very expensive, quick-drying paint. So Carating must be steady, swift, and keen. There is no prevaricating, no vacillations allowed. In his words, he is a "gambler" when he paints, because he risks the loss of a painting if he waits too long or falters or is unable to sustain the flow and rhythm of the work.

Carating has won almost all the major national competitions in his 30 years as an artist. He has exhibited all over the United States and most of Europe. He has several well-known series: "Lamang Lupa," "Anilao." But here he exhibits his surest work. Confident and strong, Carating paints with the luminescence and maturity of one who has not only found and cultivated his muse, but has also discovered in her his tranquility and refuge.

"Tranquil Refuge" opens today and runs until December 10.

Hiraya Gallery is located at 530 United Nations Avenue in Ermita, Manila. Gallery hours are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mondays to Saturdays, and from 1 to 4, Sundays. For more information, call/fax 523-3331 or e-mail hiraya@info.com.ph. Visit the website http://www.hiraya.com.