Cranium-matic

If the eyes are a window into one’s soul, how does one account for a camera lens? Mobile technology today has enabled practically anyone with a cell phone to become a photographer. Paradoxically however, the spread of cameras into such ubiquitous devices has also renewed interest in vintage photography and photographic images. Mobile apps such as Instagram and Hipstamatic have popularized filters that emulate older cameras, spawning a community of vintage photography enthusiasts who collect antique medium format cameras such as Hasselblads and Rolleis.

Through his canvas paintings, artist Almer Moneda surveys this interest in photography in a new show at Galleria Nicolas. Entitled Cranium-Matic, the show will run from July 29 to August 7, 2013 at the newly-renovated Galleria Nicolas at the 3rd floor Art Space of Glorietta 4 in Ayala Center, Makati City. For more details, please call Galleria Nicolas at (632) 625-0273 or email them at info@gallerianicolas.com. Please visit their website at www.gallerianicolas.com.

Currently residing in the art town of Paete in Laguna, Almer Moneda (b. 1987) is no stranger to visual arts. His degree in drafting from Laguna State Polytechnic University has given him a superb eye for anatomy and an ability to accurately depict mechanical devices. In Cranium-Matic, Moneda merges these two techniques into a surreal and hyperrealist oeuvre that brings some perspective to the photography community. Ideas such as the occasional voyeuristic tendencies of photographers, the “decisive moment” of photography ideologue Henri Cartier-Bresson, and the rules of composition are explored in a brilliant practice that recalls some of the most noted surrealist careers in art history.

Aside from the typical mimetic oil-on-canvas depiction of vintage Leicas and Rolleis, Moneda also attaches the cameras to the heads of various figures—adults, children, and even pets like dogs and cats. The degree of complexity in the details is a unique technique that Moneda has developed and reflects his drafting skills. A winner of various art competitions in Laguna, Moneda’s practice relies on an understanding of the world he portrays. He is an avid photographer and likes to collect vintage cameras, giving him that first-person viewpoint for his subject.

This exhibition is a great opportunity for art collectors to acquire works from a young and emerging contemporary artist. What’s more, photography buffs will lobe the attention to detail that Moneda imbues in his works. In any case, this is definitely an exhibition that should be visited.