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Entry 3, Reflection and Interpretation

Inspired by the events happening around me, I drew a picture of a beautiful and majestic tree. However, as you may notice, it is the only one. On the other side of the creek are stumps of trees from the same species followed by some tall buildings. In the reality that we are living in right now, little by little, we are cutting down the very things we cannot live without and replacing them with things we can live without. In contrast with some Filipino artists, my artwork shows the real side of the Philippines. Even though it may be an unpleasant subject  to paint, this painting is to call the attention of my country-men to help one another to take the initiative to change the Philippines for the better. What makes my artwork different from the rest is that my painting methods are my own and I do not think anyone may be able to duplicate the work, because the way that some stokes are messy is a symbolism that in the same way, the Philippines is also in a state of mess.

 In terms of the process of composing my painting, as a beginner, it was really challenging for me to express my vision well for I lack the proper knowledge on how to paint realistically. Throughout the journey of making this painting, it has made me realize that I do have the potential to be someone who is good in illustrating and painting, but it is just that I lack practice and the proper techniques. However, this does not hinder me from practicing to better myself and unlocking my full potential to express myself through painting and illustrating. I am aware that I can do better than what I have already done, which is why if given the chance, I would grade myself an 8 out of 10.

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Entry 2, Gallery Visit

Last Tuesday, October 3, the class went to a trip to the art gallery in Miriam College. As someone who has not been to an art gallery, I did not know what to expect. Though the gallery was rather small, it was very eye-opening that it was able to fit 42 artworks. I was very pleased that the gallery was not crowded, and overall just gave a vibe of tranquility. I have noticed that there were mostly paintings and only a few other methods of art.  Though I am not an expert, the lighting angles of some of the artworks were not appropriate for that certain artwork, due to the fact that it did not showcase the work as well enough as it would with a different lighting angle. Despite the lights not being as pleasing to me, I still found the room’s layout to be smart and systematic.

While at the gallery, there were some artworks that really caught my eye. 5 of them are the following:

Boxed (Series of 3) by Katti Sta. Ana

Here, it can be seen that the artist used a different style of framing her work in order to bring out the essence of the artwork. 

This artwork by Nena Saguil is truly one of a kind due to her technique of using circles, dots, and lines in order to create something so breathtaking.

Mariyah 2 by Cristina Taniguchi

The artist made use of water color and oil paints on handmade paper, which gave the painting a “vintage look” and also was very expressing through the use of fauna elements.

Tahanan by Karen Ocampo Flores

This painting had really made me stop to think about what the painting is trying to say. After having stare at it for about 5 minutes, it made me understand that our mothers are the center our home. This had made me realize that we should love our moms unconditionally as a thank you for them for doing everything they can in order to raise their children with good hearts and as well as provide for them.

And last but not the least, Nude by Julie Lluch

The most favourable artwork to me is “Nude” by Julie Lluch. It caught my attention as soon as I entered the art gallery. Because the artwork did not come with a description, I was free to interpret what the statue meant. Nudity, in the Filipino culture, is a very controversial topic. Being a mostly Catholic country, it is instilled into our society to be conservative. However, the way I see it, nudity is something pure. God has created everyone in His own image and likeness and that in itself is pure. Nudity shows off God’s craft. Though we think that there are flaws underneath the clothes that we cover ourselves with, in God’s eyes, we are perfect. So in short, by the way that the statue is positioned, the artwork shows off the natural beauty that God has made.

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Entry 1, Meeting Expectations

Art cannot be simply put into a general definition for its meaning differs depending on what a person perceives it to be. Personally, art is something that is created out of expression and meaningful thought. My definition of art is the reason why I think it is still relevant to students for art can be an outlet for their feelings and thoughts, and it is also through art that they can develop their own style of expression.

This term, as we are having our subject: Contemporary Arts, I expect it to be challenging for I am not used to channeling my inner painter/illustrator skills in order for me to get a high grade. However, with the ample amount of time given and with the guidance of our teacher, I believe that I will be able to bring out my God-given ability to express myself through painting with ease.

I understand that creating art takes time and is not a skill that is acquired easily, which is why I am going to take it upon myself to practice as often as I can in order for me to unlock my full potential of being someone who can express herself freely through painting or illustrating.