Transience

Birds are overlooked characters in daily life, but idolized figures in the artistic lexicon. They are seen as a metaphor for the fleeting world, an ephemeral and visual representation of a transient moment. “Transience” explores the birdsong and the aesthetic variation of avian species through the work of William Alvarez.

William Alvarez’ careful application of color enhances the individual characteristics of each avian sitter. Additionally, the expressive, metallic gold background creates a dynamic and ethereal atmosphere around the birds. The intensity of Alvarez’ vision and his attention to detail gives the work the quality of an eidetic memory, reconfigured in a dream.

Rediscovering birds, their habits and habitats also brought the artist closer to finding his own place in the larger world. While learning about and observing birds, it became unavoidable for Alvarez to become aware of the interconnectedness of all the elements inhabiting the earth, both wild and civilized. Birds have been introduced to his work as subject matter because their presence is also part of his personal experiences -- their arrivals and departures mirror the seasonal change similar to one’s growth and development; that impermanence is the only permanent state; that change is only constant. – Text by Grace Ng

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 with 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’ 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).

“Transience” by William Alvarez will be on view simultaneously at Galerie Raphael Shangri-la and Galerie Raphael Serendra from October 21 to 30, 2021. Galerie Raphael Shangri-la is located at Level 4, Main Wing Shangri-La Plaza Mall, EDSA cor. Shaw Blvd. Mandaluyong City and Galerie Raphael Serendra is at the Second Level, The Piazza Serendra Mall, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. For inquiries, contact Galerie Raphael Shangri-la at +63 (2) 8941-6194 or email shang@galerieraphael.com.ph; or Galerie Raphael Serendra at +63 (2) 8856-3034 or email info@galerieraphael.com.ph.