“My paintings for this series are reflections of my state of mind” — Vincent De Pio
YÅ«gen is a concept deeply rooted in Japanese aesthetics and arts, particularly in traditional literature, poetry, and theater. It is a term that defies easy definition, as its essence lies in the principle of the ineffable and the enigmatic. It speaks to the subtle and elusive aspects of a concept that cannot be easily explained or fully grasped, embracing suggestion and allusion that employs symbolism and poetic imagery to convey its essence.
For his latest exhibition, visual artist Vincent De Pio explores the idea of YÅ«gen—an important concept in traditional Japanese aesthetics—to saturate his recollection of his own faculties. In this collection, De Pio’s muses serve as conduits of his own introspections, seemingly contemplative and serene.
For Vincent De Pio, his works are vessels wherein silence holds great significance. It is within these pauses, the moments of stillness and interconnectedness, that the essence of its beauty emerges.
Treading the delicate balance between spontaneity and constraint, Vincent De Pio revisits his work process and re-evaluates his perceptions and philosophies. For De Pio, clarity in the process of painting is not a static state; it evolves and transforms with each artwork he creates, an ongoing dialogue between the artist and the artworks he breathes life into.
Through marrying expressionist and realist techniques, Vincent de Pio (b. 1979) gives his interpretation of Japanese motifs a unique personal vision. More than being fascinated by Japan’s rich pop culture, he is also fascinated by the image of the past and the present, placing geishas and warriors in movie-like contemporary settings.
The son of renowned realist painter, Gig de Pio, Vincent separates himself from his father and other contemporaries with this deep dive into Japanese history and tradition. An artist who has been active in the art scene since 2001, de Pio first started painting musicians as his subjects, but recently took interest in Japanese imageries after realizing how much of this foreign culture has permeated the country.
A holder of Bachelor of Fine Arts (Major in Painting), de Pio is one of the most sought-after artists of his generation, having exhibited at Art Fair Philippines, Art Stage Jakarta, Singapore Biennale, and Art Kaohsiung; as well as being an auction favorite in Hong Kong and Singapore. He has participated in over 20 group exhibitions here and abroad.
“YÅ«gen” by Vincent De Pio will be on view from July 2 — 12, 2023 at Galerie Joaquin BGC. An Artist Reception is slated for July 7, Friday at 5 PM. The gallery is located on the Upper Ground Floor, One Bonifacio High Street Mall, 5th Ave. Corner 28th Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.
