Visual artist William Alvarez is well-known for his careful and striking attention to detail in artmaking. His lustrous gold mountains with vibrant backdrops resonate with the beautiful landscapes and unfinished structures found in the higher extents of Morong, Rizal — now considered a “lost paradise” to some of its people.
Aside from visualizing its natural inhabitants — that being birds and other animals — Alvarez decides to illustrate an archival way of living, with its people echoing an impression of life found in the terrains of elevated land. With this, the artist shapes and reshapes our perception of reality and expands our frame of mind — exploring what once was and what could be. Familiar scenes and nuances reflecting local customs and practices can be seen spread across the borders of his land and sea, breathing a sense of spirit all around his rendition of a promised land.
In essence, the exhibit is a revisit and revamp of cultural landscapes entwined with the energy of human activity. Seeking possibilities where nature and existence coincide to create a terrain enlivened by its inhabitants, “Beyond the Terrain” is an extension of poetic, cultural, and symbolical storytelling.
William Alvarez Jr.’s oeuvre is intended to create narrative compositions out of abstract sonic and visual impressions inspired by his native Morong and its people and environment.
He has the ability to impart large and provocative themes to the audience through his abstract works. His aim is for the viewers to see beyond their current perception, creating a multi-layered experience that extends into their impression of reality.
His major achievements include winning the grand prize for the Non-Representational Category of the 2017 GSIS National Art Competition and being awarded the LIKAS Morong Gawad Kabataan Award for 2017. Alvarez’s other notable achievements include the following: Shortlist, Philippine Art Awards 2018 (Regional Competition in Luzon Category); Semi-finalist, MADE (Metrobank Art and Design Excellence) 2018; Awardee, 116th Araw ng Lalawigan ng Rizal 2017; Honorable Mention, National GSIS Art Competition 2010; Finalist, Exhibition Center for Contemporary Art (ECCA) 2010. William Alvarez Jr. currently resides in Morong, Rizal, and is an active member of the community-based artist group MUSTRA (Morong Young Artists).
“Beyond the Terrain” by William will be on view from August 6 — 15, 2023 at Galerie Joaquin Podium, located on the 3rd Level, The Podium, ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City.
