As seconds slip away and the seasons change, we find ourselves in a perpetual dance with the passing of time. It is a phenomenon that surrounds us, shapes us, and ultimately defines our existence. From the gentle cadence of the clock to the silent transformation of landscapes, the passage of time permeates every facet of our lives. It is both a universal constant and a deeply personal experience, an enigma that has captivated the human mind since the dawn of consciousness.
For James Gabito’s latest exhibition, the artworks serve as portals to the past. Etched upon the canvas are scenes of a city that flourishes with vitality. Each painting encapsulates the essence of Manila, capturing its vibrant streets, architectural marvels, and the bustling energy that animates its heart. These masterpieces reveal a city that has weathered the test of time, carrying within its cracks and crevices the weight of centuries and the stories of countless lives. Through their expressive imagery and ruminative storytelling, these artworks pay homage to the essence of urban life and the profound impact it has had on generations, past and present.
“Ripples of Time” is not just an art exhibition but also a pilgrimage into the depths of the human spirit. In the tradition of James Gabito’s evocative oeuvre, it reminds viewers to embrace vulnerability and immerse themselves in the fluidity of existence. Through delicate brushstrokes, interwoven narratives, and play with colors, the exhibition challenges us to question the boundaries of our own perception, to reclaim forgotten memories, and to find solace in the harmonious tapestry of our shared human experience. They remind us that within the fabrics of our collective memory lies the spirit of a city, forever etched in the annals of history.
James Gabito (b.1979) is a Filipino painter who studied Fine Arts at the University of Philippines Baguio. His works depict archetypes of the provincial culture attesting to its unspoiled and vibrant way of living. Gabito’s artistic practice celebrates the binding connection of a nation – through heritage and tradition. The artist’s interpretation stems from a perspective of change in practice, depicting local folks in old rural and urban settings, arriving in horse-drawn carriages and offering their freshest harvests, assembled with a sense of artisanal intricacy and rawness that is uniquely distinctive of the Filipino identity.
“Ripples of Time” by James Gabito will be on view from June 6 — 16, 2023. Galerie Joaquin Podium is located at the 3rd level, the Podium, ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong City.
