ABOUT THE WORK

Contemporary visual artist Charlie Co utilizes the power of Surrealism in his exciting allegorical paintings. His subjects, often in colorful garb and surreal environments, are unconventional and not based on art market trends. This whimsical 1997 work belongs to his series of circus performers that shows a vibrant visualization of human competition. The subjects, seemingly competing against each other in a balancing act, have mysterious theatrical features. Here, Co’s playfulness, eye for composition, and purposeful use of color are showcased. Known as a visual chronicler, the Bacolod-based artist produces works with striking socio-realist themes rendered in expressionist and surrealist modes. A recipient of the Thirteen Artists Award from the Cultural Center of the Philippines in 1990, Co also founded Gallery Orange in 2005 which serves as an avenue for young contemporary artists and curators.