Accompanied by a certificate signed by the
artist confirming the authenticity of this lot

ABOUT THE WORK

Andres Barrioquinto's oeuvre gradually evolved from the disturbing to the more sublime facets of human angst and trepidation. His ability to shift creatively through different painting styles while preserving his trademark of underlying somberness has continuously captivated audiences worldwide. Owing to his stoicism, Barrioquinto's mind can only be construed from what he demonstrates through his art. In this piece, Barrioquinto evokes an engrossing peculiarity. Typically, the image of a skull represents the harrowing experience of demise. On the contrary, Barrioquinto presents the antithesis of it. He uses the skull to symbolize strength and overcoming challenges. Its bright color represents the "death" of an old life. The dead of night has waned, and life is revitalized; a rebirth has happened. Amid the constant cycle of suffering, the work is a poignant reminder for us to continue living and prospering. The monochromatic flowers, albeit used as the background, set the piece's overall mood. More than a perplexing backdrop, they serve as instruments providing a deeper introspection on the main subject. They encapsulate beauty amid the madness, a struggle between pleasure and misery. After all, our lives are grounded in contradictions that, when combined, result in a fascinating and genuine existence. Barrioquinto shared in a 2021 interview with Lifestyle Asia, "I think challenges are given in life. I think it's in my character to want to embrace these challenges. I was born in struggle, so living in it is just natural for me. Happiness is just a side effect, and it's always fleeting and unpredictable. Find your largest burden to carry, and bear with it."