Transition

Key moments in a person's life are marked by movement--transitions between one point to another. Heraclitus wrote that the only thing permanent is change, and people are always in the midst of exploration. We are constantly in between different states of being, and these experiences serve to empower us and enlighten our perspective.

It takes an abstractionist like Camille Ver to fully grasp this decidedly abstract concept. Known primarily for her paintings of aggressively abstracted urban landscapes, she now explores the transition between that inorganic integration of forms to the raw spontaneity of nature. In between these two points of view, Ver becomes the mediator of divergent ideas and in effect synthesises a unique approach to contemporary abstraction.

Her efforts come to fruition in her latest exhibition, "Transition" at Galleria Nicolas in Glorietta. Running from June 24 to July 8, the show marks a significant milestone in Ver's artistic career.

Galleria Nicolas is located at the 3/F Art Space in Glorietta 4, Ayala Center, Makati City. They may be reached through their landline at (632) 625-0273 or email at info@gallerianicolas.com. Visit their website at www.gallerianicolas.com.

One of the art scene's rising young abstractionists, Camille Ver is a graduate of the College of Fine Arts of the University of the Philippines. As opposed to the common usage of controlled minimalism in abstraction, Ver prefers to use large swaths of brushworks and experiments extensively with color and depth in her practice. Her transitions between inorganic to organic subjects is emphasized by her forceful use of expressive strokes that are tempered by the tec-pen lines.

A reading of these transitions is best encapsulated with her urban paintings--none more representative of her sensibilities than "Untilted." In a very disciplined piece, Ver uses the emotions of the backdrop to silhouette her skyscrapers in a layered orange sunset. The pulse of the city however is indicative in the lines of that the skyscraper shapes contain, evoking set patterns that recall the trajectory of a torrent of electricity. It is also fitting that the painting bring to mind a sunset, as it a great jump point into an exploration into organic subject.

Of this transition, we have "Blue Trunk." A painting of a blue-tinted tree against a yellowing sky, the abstracted aspect is presented in a deliberate flurry of nature. White swirling lines break away from the linear and angular lines in Ver's urban scenes, and this movement is brought about by the artist's own journey in her bold experimentations in abstraction.

The exhibition represents a landmark in the career of Camille Ver, and cements her growing reputation as a leading abstractionist. It is also well placed in today's contemporary art scene as a progressive examination of the nature of movement and transitions. Art lovers are invited to share this journey by visiting the exhibition soon.