ABOUT THE WORK

Alcuaz’ abstractions show turbulently dissonant palettes and a lucid sensitivity to light against shadow. In abstract illusionist paintings elements that appear abstract — such as brushstrokes, quasi geometric forms, patches and daubs of paint — are given life as objects by the way in which they are painted. These works from 1983 stand as reminders of how engrossing his art was during his stay in Spain. Alcuaz was probably the most intuitive among the Filipino artists who found their moorings in Europe. His random abstractions reveal his dedication to the mastery of brushstrokes. Of his paintings, the abstracts are perennial collectors’ favorites, deriving from the synthetic phase of cubism at the School of Paris; it is true, but with their own unusual vividness of color and their own intense play of shapes. Yet there is no confusion, as each shape follows its predetermined course in his polyrhythmic design, snaking its way in movements within the limits of the canvas. A highly complex system of gestural lines and planes, light and dark areas reminiscent of Picasso tie up the various shapes.