“Hermosura” by Jun Rocha at Galleria Nicolas Glorietta and Manila Bay
Show runs February 14 – 22, 2021
By Grace Ng
“Hermosura” highlights the complexity and multivalent nature of the Filipina in the immediate pre-technological period. The artworks aim to demonstrate the intersection, interaction, and reaction to colonial subjugation and collaboration, as well as the desire to develop an artistic language that reflects the Philippine nation.
The purpose of the exhibit is to analyze the versatile nature of the gaze in the paintings of modern Philippine art in relation to the image of the archaic Filipina especially the “Maria Clara” psyche. Rocha’s narrative highlights the formal elements of modern Philippine painting: the stylization of forms, uniformity of figures, and the artist’s personal use of color and surface.
By exploring historical social folk art, traditions, and rituals, Jun Rocha’s artworks endeavor to graduate it beyond its domestic stereotypes, limited narratives, and exclusionary practices. They aim to examine the nature of our customs, their effect, and create a productive conversation surrounding the Filipina identity and the hidden social influences that hold society back.
Jun Sergio Rocha (b. 1956) took up BS Chemistry at the Manila Central University. His love for visual arts, however, took him to another direction. In 1989, Rocha took up watercolor painting at the American Academy of Arts and oil painting at the School of Art Institute of Chicago. He became a member of the Palette and Chisel Art Academy and the Plein Art Painters of Chicago. In 2002, he received an Outstanding Community Artist Award from the City Mayor of Chicago. After more than two decades abroad, Rocha came back to his native Philippines where he continues to showcase his talent for the arts.
"Hermosura" by Jun Rocha will be on view simultaneously at Galleria Nicolas Glorietta and Ayala Malls Manila Bay from February 14 – 22, 2021. The Galleries are located the 3/F Art Space, Glorietta 4, Ayala Center, Makati City and at 2/F, Filipino Village, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Diosdado Macapagal Blvd, Parañaque, respectively. For inquiries, contact +63 917 643 6282, email gallerianicolasbayarea@gmail.com or +63 2 8 625 0273, +63 917 534 3942, email info@gallerianicolas.com.
