Filipino art has been stirring up some buzz in the Asian contemporary art scene. One particular artist is Aleah Angeles, known for her works that have been described as “lyrical compositions with a warm romantic flair.” At 26, Aleah is one of the youngest artists to have had her work included in the Christie’s auction of Asian Contemporary Art.
It is not surprising the Angeles has caught the eye of local and international audiences. One look at Angeles’ works puts the viewers in a trance. The depth and soulfulness of her paintings belie the artist’s young age. Others have described Angeles’ work as “Mona Lisa-inspired.”
Soft-spoken, unassuming and intelligent beyond her years, Angeles counts Frida Kahlo as one of her greatest influences. She admits that she dreams of becoming a botanist in another life, thus the huge influence of wildflowers in her work.
Angeles’ “Lazy Daisy,” sold for twice the estimated value at Christie’s portrays, as written on the lot notes on Christie’s website, “Angeles’ alter-ego, falling asleep under a tree with her half-read book draped over her face. Trapped in the pages of her fairytale or fantasy novella, the heroine in her slumber is sweetly unaware of the looming dream-forest behind her, as though conjured directly from her unfinished tale. With her ruffled skirt, knee-socks slipping down her legs, out-flung hand, Lazy Daisy is an archetypal rendition of corrupted girlish innocence. Inspired by the figures of young girls, which the artist herself relates to and draws from life based on her own photographs; her paintings often show then in recumbent positions, half caught in dreams and fantasy.”
Angeles is a resident artist of Mendez Big and Small Art Co.
The audience will have a chance to view Angeles’ work at the upcoming exhibition “Hybrid,” her second solo exhibition, which on view starting today until Dec. 2 at Mendez Big and Small Art Co., fourth floor SM Megamall Building A, Mandaluyong City.
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For information, call 527-3128, 516-3342, 09178482691 or email mendezbigandsmall@yahoo.com.ph.
Artwork for the show will include portraits of young girls with foreign blood. Also part of the show is a painting of wildflowers.
Another hauntingly beautiful portrait by Angeles of a young girl will also be up for auction at the upcoming Kingly Treasures Auction on Nov. 29 at 2 p.m. by Leon Gallery at the ground floor, Eurovilla 1, Rufino corner Legazpi Streets, Legazpi Village, Makati City.