'Ako': The art of self-portraiture at SM

MANILA, Philippines - Ever since man gazed at his own reflection in a pool of water, self-portraits have been a form of self-expression and self-exploration. The invention of the mirror sparked an even stronger fascination to capture one’s likeness. And through the years, self-portraiture as an art form has flourished in various media and manner for more reasons than recording a human face or figure.

Self-portraits can be carefully staged to show the audience what the artist wishes to project, at times inadvertently revealing deep feelings of anguish or pain. These have also been a way of testing new techniques and genres. As a form of self-exploration, self portraits can bring about a cathartic experience, reveal new insights about oneself and one’s work, an opportunity to see beyond the image in the mirror and begin to search into one’s soul.

Mallgoers recently had the rare opportunity to view an exciting selection of self-portraits by the most renowned names in Philippine visual art during the recent launch of Ako: Self Portraits from the 1800s to the Present, which was recently launched at The Block at SM City North EDSA. The exhibit will be transferred until the end of July at the Interior Zone, also at SM City North EDSA, and then travel to the SM Megamall from Aug. 1 to 14, and finally to the SM Mall of Asia.

A joint project of SM and the Metropolitan Museum of Manila, the exhibition is comprised on 37 self-portraits as depicted in painting, sculptures, drawing, photography, and prints. The exhibit showcases a rare self-portrait of our National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, as well as those of pre-20th century masters like Rafael Enriquez.

“Ako” also includes the works of National Artist BenCab, as well as Romulo Galicano, Sanso, Santiago Bose, Kiko Escora, Phyllis Zaballero, Lenore RS Lim, Julie Lluch, Jerry Araos, Wig Tysman, and Bobot Meru.

Many of the artists were present during the SM City North EDSA launch — Romulo Galicano, Phyllis Zabellero, Jerry Araos, Noel El Farrol, Irma Lacorte, Jun Impas, Diokno Pasilan, and Bobot Meru. The Metropolitan Museum of Manila staff led by vice chair Corazon Alvina welcomed them as did SM executives: vice president for marketing Millie Dizon, AVP for marketing Ruby Reyes, and SM City North EDSA mall manager Hershe Angeles.

“Ako: Self Portraits from the 1800s to the Present” is one of the many exciting cultural events at SM’s premium malls.