Christian Mirang’s latest exhibition, dubbed as “Pugay Kamay,” is not only a fine and judicious rendering of existing pieces, but also a form of reflection on the art of painting itself.
In his sixth and latest solo exhibition titled “Pugay Kamay,” artist Christian Mirang pays tribute to some of the greatest and most celebrated artists of all time by poking lighthearted fun at their works.
Bananart, 30 x 22, watercolor on arches paper
Grant’s Inasal, 30 x 22, watercolor on arches paper
Vincent 3, 30 x 22, watercolor on arches paper
The exhibit features some of the world’s most recognizable artworks such as Michaelangelo’s “David,” which Mirang juxtaposes in the same frame with Maurizio Cattelan’s “The Comedian,” including the now-infamous duct-taped banana, in lieu of a fig leaf, as David’s covering. Mirang also pays homage to some of the artists themselves. Keith Haring and Piet Mondrian’s portraits, for instance, appear inside their respective artworks.
In fact, a walk through the exhibition is not only a feast for the senses, but also, for the curious and well-versed, a virtual Easter egg hunt through history, as he or she encounters various iconic artworks juxtaposed with everyday objects or symbols.
This exhibition is a fine rendering and a form of reflection on the art of painting itself–thoroughly referential, yet no less aesthetically pleasing, and deeply entrenched in the history of art through the ages. It is also, without a doubt, an exercise in testing one’s sense of humor.
Having been part of the art scene for more than 38 years now, Mirang is an award-winning artist who has also graced the pages of some of the most prestigious and authoritative publications in the country. As early as 1982, the then young Mirang was recognized as one of 10 artists to look out for by People magazine. One of his paintings also graced the back cover of Readers Digest in 1995.
The artist acknowledges that his works would not have been possible without “God being the source of my abilities.” It was only fitting, he adds, that he settle on a title that pays homage not only to some of the greatest artists of all time, but also to God, “who has inspired me.” The same God, he adds, “who has inspired and given all artists the ability to create.”
The ongoing exhibition will run until September 18 at Art Lounge Manila, Molito Lifestyle Center, Muntinlupa City.
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