As Time Coalesces

Time is the summation of all things that has ever existed, indefinitely moving forward through space. For “As Time Coalesces,” James Gabito and Art Lozano showcase scenic compositions that invoke a sense of sentiment through picturesque portrayals of nature and everyday life. The works are a homage to the duality of being, of the past and present, encompassing objective and subjective features of existence.

Gabito and Lozano’s oeuvre is primarily characterized by sincere insight into the bygones—illustrated through gestural, vigorous and often spontaneous applications of paint. The bold use of color and visually stimulating grandness of the forests and urban landscapes are stark reminders of what once was. Through conscientious introspection, the coalescence of the artists’ body of work is an acknowledgement of time’s fluidity: blurring, but at the same time, emphasizing, the fine line between the past and present, the then and now, the traditional and the contemporary.

Emotionally and spiritually charged, the works for this exhibition aims to impart narratives of perception of time—how these careful choice of subjects and compositions are deeply rooted within our very existence. They encourage the audience to revisit the past where everything was much more simple and tender. The works signify a reminder to pause—to take comfort in its warmth as it subtly pulsate senses of nostalgia; after all, it is subtle enough that we only notice its intricacies upon reflection.

Art Lozano is described to be a “quiet environmentalist” who develops his talent to convey a message. He believes his works can be an instrument to propel the message of saving earth’s pristine beauty. He dreams that his paintings will have an effect to make people act and take full responsibility in preserving Mother Nature. Ultimately, as he bares his soul through his works, Lozano entices his audience to interpret his works with a critical eye and an open mind.

A painter from Ilocos, Arthur “Art” Lozano has, since 2000, been garnering recognition by various award giving bodies which include the AAP Annual Art Competition, Metro Bank Art and Design Excellence National Competition, GSIS Art Award, and the Philip Morris Art Award. He is currently a member of the renowned Baguio Tam-awan Artist Group.

James Gabito, a Baguio-based artist, 2015 GSIS honorable mention and 2015 MADE finalist, paints archetypes of the mountain province culture attesting to the region's unspoiled vibrant way of living. Gabito assembles these images with a sense of artisanal intricacy and rawness to his subjects. Gabito's interpretation stems from his perspective of change in practice, such as that from weaving or planting rice.

“As Time Coalesces” by Art Lozano and James Gabito will be on view from September 13 to 23, 2022 with the Artists’ Reception scheduled on September 13 at 5PM. Galerie Raphael U.P. Town Center is located at 2/F Phase 2 U.P. Town Center, Katipunan Ave., Diliman, Quezon City. For inquiries, contact +632 8247 1109 or email galerie.raphael@gmail.com.