A celebration of abstract and wearable art at Galerie Francesca’s ongoing show

The gallery shines a spotlight on abstract artist and fine jewelry designer Helena Alegre, as she showcases captivating seascapes and exquisite jewelry inspired by the beauty and rawness of nature.

It’s like witnessing two shows in one. But artist Helena Alegre likens her latest exhibit to a visual narrative borne out of the dichotomy between heaven and earth. In the process, she gives guests glimpses into her world through creations hewn from precious metals and gemstones, and ethereal seascapes and atmospheric landscapes only seen by the mind’s eye. Those who have seen her abstract works liken them to moments or, to be more precise, memories frozen in a state of continuous change. They are manifestations of the artist’s inner dialogue as much as they are of the nature that she surrounds herself with.

Tambourine II, sterling silver and emerald
Calla Lily I, sterling silver and blue agate
Crucifixion I, sterling silver and blue tiger’s eye

Galerie Francesca at Festival Mall in Alabang presents a breathtaking exhibition by the “atmospheric” abstract artist and fine jewelry designer, Helena Alegre. “Terra Firma, Terra Excelsia” showcases Alegre’s captivating seascapes and exquisite jewelry, all inspired by the beauty and rawness of nature. 

Alegre’s deep connection with the natural world is evident in every piece she creates. Whether it is her sculptural jewelry or atmospheric abstract seascape paintings, her artistic expressions are rooted in the wonders she is surrounded by.

Situated just six kilometers away from Bagasbas beach in Daet, Camarines Norte, one of the Philippines’ popular surfing spots, Alegre’s studio serves as her playground and sanctuary. The mile-long stretch of fine gray sand and the wild waves crashing against the shore provide her with an endless source of inspiration. It is within this atmospheric view, accompanied by the soothing sea breeze and the symphony of waves where she finds her muse.

The seascape, a versatile subject, takes center stage in Alegre’s artwork. Through her skilled brushwork, she captures the dynamic energy and ever-changing moods of the ocean. Each painting becomes a window into the vastness and mystery of the sea, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in its beauty.

Golden Hour, oil on canvas
Cumulonimbus, oil on canvas
Purple Rain, oil on canvas

In addition to her seascape paintings, Alegre also presents her sculptural jewelry. Here, her inspiration stems from her fascination with nature, particularly entomology and taxonomy. Through her jewelry, Alegre brings forth the intricate details and delicate beauty of insects, infusing them with a touch of history and the cultural heritage of her adopted hometown, Camarines Norte. She uses traditional artisanal jewelry making techniques and combines that with her unique aesthetic results in bold decidedly modern pieces that encapsulate the modern Filipino woman, rooted in tradition but driven forward by a clear vision of the future.

“Terra Firma, Terra Excelsia” is an exhibition that celebrates the harmony between art and nature. Alegre’s creations pay homage to the rawness and magnificence of the natural world, inviting us to appreciate its wonders through her eyes.

“Terra Firma, Terra Excelsia” will be on view at Festival Mall in Alabang until September 19.

For inquiries and viewing appointment, send a direct message to or email at info@galeriefrancesca.com. You can also visit https://galeriefrancesca.com for further details.