Feature: Inspired by Alvarado’s Inspirasyon
by Chris Marie C. Dumasis
Since beginning-less time, women have always shaped history. Until to date,
women’s influence extends to society and a fascinating theme for the arts. This is showcased by one of my favorite artists, Sir Nune Alvarado.
TENTASYON - Another undefined crudeness and beauty only Nune Alvarado can.*
(contributed photo)
What makes Nunelucio Alvarado a force in the world of art is the fact that his paintings show depth and character, at the same time, a sense of balance through humor and sexual innuendos without compromising the powerful messages that he wants to illustrate.
Babaye Series is the latest works (exhibit) of Mr. Nune Alvarado which again, he did not fail to deliver. What I love about pen and ink is its raw appeal that is very unpretentious. Coupled with the influence of Alvarado and the result is impeccably striking.
FLOWER NI INDAY - Nune Alvarado obviously is sexual but the powerful message
of femininity is not compromised.* (contributed photo)
The lines and the curves present in his recent works seem never-ending, bringing my imagination to the deeper parts of my subconscience – reminding me of that beautiful connection that only infinity could bring. The circles and swirls mystify me – the longer I stare at them, the clearer I discern what each shape signifies. I know each cube and each square in each artwork is fundamental and has a deeper involvement than what they seem to be. This I know because more than anything else, Nune Alvarado is a man of details.
If I were to choose a personal favorite, it would be the "Flower ni Inday" - not only because of its intricacy but because there is something" mandala-like" about it. The way it was depicted reminded me of that secret, magical door leading to the world of femininity and female splendor. One look at it and I know how the artist wanted to show us a peek of a woman’s perplexed beauty and the perplexities her beauty brings.
"Babaye Series" is intense yet relatable; simple but enigmatic; complicated yet fathomable and most importantly, feminine in theme yet masculine in rendering. Bottom line is, only a true genius could create something astonishing and paradoxical at the same time. No one can define that thin line between dark and light, anguish and hope, crudeness and beauty, pain and love the way Nune Alvarado could and always will.
Catch "Inspiration ni Alvarado" paintings and drawings July 13 to August 10, 2012, Museo Iloilo, Bonifacio Drive, Iloilo City.*
