Xander Calceta’s works for “Life, Still” are concerned with contemporary composition.
Within the canvas, the objects function primarily as elements of varying color, texture, and value. Calceta is intrigued by the subjects for their form and accompanying symbolic potential and personal significance. The collection of objects is kept in a shifting tableau that generates a dialogue between the artist, the objects, and the canvas. Each artwork is intended to operate independently but can also be understood as part of a larger and open-ended whole.
Xander Calceta’s subjects are often extracted from daily life such as objects, gestures, and situations. Sometimes, the figures are composed into house-like structures, which result in a harmonious relation where the structures seem to move or grow but also create a certain feeling of nostalgia and raise questions about identity, home, or living in general. He separates them from their usual theme and mixes them with purpose from remembered places, ideas, and memories — creating a surreal momentum which is very important for Calceta as an artist.
The content of Xander Calceta’s oeuvre is often meant to infer meaning–but is not meant to project a particular ideology. Extracting a message is the prerogative of his audience.
Xander Calceta is a self-taught artist. His works have been exhibited both locally and internationally. Calceta teaches painting in private tutorials and workshops. His art signature is X N D R, dropping the vowel letters of his name. The artist retains this signature for modern and fusion arts. However, in classical approach of his works, he changes his art signature into a complete letter name of Xander.
Calceta’s approach to his chosen medium of oil and acrylic paint is a blend of contemporary impressionism and traditional naturalism. Recently, Calceta explores other techniques and approach like those of modernism by experimenting and combining classic art into modern to create a fusion.
“Life, Still” by Xander Calceta will be on view from November 20 — 30, 2021. Galerie Joaquin U.P. Town Center is located at 2/F Phase 2 U.P. Town Center, Katipunan Ave., Diliman, Quezon City.
