Art can spring forth from the most unlikely objects. Yes, even from items many of us already deem as useless. Ongoing until June 30, mixed media artist Jürg Casserini is showcasing his bangka (boat) art assemblage and driftwood art pieces at The Artologist Gallery at the Art Plaza Level 4, Main Wing, EDSA Shangri-la Plaza.
Swiss-born Casserini has been collecting bits and pieces of wooden boats that wash ashore in Bohol. What others might see as trash or even kindling for fire, Casserini sees as elements for his collages made of found objects.
He cleans them of sand and dirt, allows them to dry naturally to create beautiful compositions of art perfect to hang on the wall. Surprisingly, he doesn’t even need to re-paint the scraps of wood. Vivid swathes of color, numbers and letters remain. The heat of the sun has perfectly preserved them. Other discarded items like nautical rope or paintbrush sometimes lend texture to some of the pieces.
Casserini, a former diplomat, and his wife have fallen in love with the Philippines and have decided to make the country their retirement haven. They spend time between their place in the business district and their leisure apartment in Bohol.
“Walking along the beaches, I was touched by the many colorful wooden parts from broken bangka. I started to collect the pieces thinking I could bring the broken bangka alive again. This way, I create not only beautiful art works but also pay tribute to the Filipino fisherman,” he says.
Casserini’s collection includes pieces of soft hues of blue, somber gray, refreshing green, vibrant orange and red. Sizes vary. The artist also turns driftwood into interesting conversation pieces. The exhibit features 20 Bangka collages and 7 driftwood pieces.
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