Artist Lotsu Manes continues to explore the theme of survival in his latest exhibit at West Gallery, titled Habol-Hininga. It is inspired by his winning piece about the struggles and ordeals of a large family, titled “Philippine Deep,” at the recent Philippine Art Awards. He is joined by Mervin Pimentel, whose works and concepts “are in sync with mine.” Though their approaches to art-making are different, Manes believes his and Pimentel’s collaboration will produce a bigger impact on the viewing audience. At first glance, Manes’ s “Valerie,” a 6 ft. x 6 ft. oil on canvas piece, looks like it is telling the story of a mother, but, Manes notes, “it is in fact a survival story of a struggling artist.” He likens the role of a mother in the family to the pursuit of excellence in his craft. Then, there is “Ang Babae sa ICU,” likewise a 6 ft. x 6 ft. oil on canvas work, in which Manes tackles the serious condition of the justice system in the country, as if it is a patient fighting for his life. In every exhibit, Manes says he aims to convey to the viewer the theme and style he uses in each work.He appreciates that one of the perks of winning (a Juror’s Choice Award for Excellence) at the Philippine Art Awards allowed him to see the international art fair held in Hong Kong in May. Seeing the diversity of the works there, he would also like to try using different mediums and materials in future pieces, and perhaps join international art fairs as well, as he expands his artistic horizons.Pimentel, for his part, hopes to raise public awareness on what is exactly happening in the society, beyond the comforts of one’s convenient access to technology. His works in oil on woodcut panel include the 6 ft x 8 ft piece, “Habol-Hininga: Panandaliang Paraiso sa Sinapupunan ng Impyerno,” and his “Pako” series, titled “Pangako,” “Napako,” and “Ipinako,” all of which depict the hardships one endures on a day-to-day basis to survive. With his paintings, he hopes to inspire fellow artists “to do artworks that speak of reality and to seek change for the betterment of our country.”
