NYAB Event - Manuel Ocampo "The 80s”

Manuel Ocampo "The 80s”

Topaz Arts

This event has ended.

"The 80s” is a solo exhibition of recent paintings by Manuel Ocampo, internationally renowned contemporary artist from the Philippines.

The recent series “The 80s” features backdated works that create a “productive tension through a re-visitation of the past”. Having emerged into prominence in the late 1980’s, this series is a time-based examination described by Ocampo as “almost antithetical to what was the order of the day – a jovial poetics of dissonance toying with the forms and function of a recycled vernacular inviting a celebratory critique of traditional notions of style”. Choosing to display the works in unconventional places – paintings set on the floor, on the edge of corners or intentionally positioned low on the wall, the small-scale oil paintings on canvas appear unassuming while at the same time the series is perhaps Ocampo’s most abstract and conceptual works. Uncharacteristic of the paintings he is best known for – his subversive allegorical depiction of colonial and religious icons, and his more recent foray into large-scale graphic imagery – this series is a pared down abstraction of paintings, dated from 1988 to 1992 through 2011. What remains is the intellectual rigor and sublime wit prevalent in his works, accompanied often poetic, humorous titles. Stepping back in time, the work is seeped in painterly concerns, yet is a commentary on painting and art itself.

TOPAZ ARTS kicks off its international series with The 80’s — the first in a series of shows that highlight leading contemporary artists from the Philippines, continuing through 2013. In Fall 2012, TOPAZ ARTS will present Bastards of Misrepresentation II, curated by Manuel Ocampo, featuring artists from Manila. The group show is about the cultural scene happening in the Philippines yet is not a definitive show about Philippine art. Presented for the first time in the United States by TOPAZ ARTS in New York, the series will be a multi-venue exhibition headquartered at TOPAZ ARTS with participating organizations such as the Queens Museum of Art. Inspired by a research trip conducted by co-founding directors, Todd Richmond and Paz Tanjuaquio, and initiated by the idea of presenting the arts scene encountered in the Philippines, TOPAZ ARTS brings focus to a collective art movement, presenting cutting-edge art that has relevance to the local community while giving exposure to the bourgeoning and vibrant arts scene taking place in Manila, further engaging and re-examining the ties between the U.S. and the Philippines.

About the Artist:
Manuel Ocampo (b. 1965, lives and works in Manila) is a celebrated Filipino artist.