Provenance: Provenance: Private Collection, Manila

ABOUT THE WORK

In an article, upon being asked about what his clean, Zen, and deliberate works represent or anything notable behind these pieces, acclaimed abstract painter Carating said: “Why does a painting need to have an explanation? Why does it need to have a purpose? You lose the magic of art when you ask the artist too many things. Let it be.” Carating is said to have a calm and restrained personality which reflects in his works of metallic colors in hard-edge geometric shapes, revealing hints of color underneath as Carating carved out thick layers of acrylic paint. These pieces, such as this 2013 triptych work, are created out of a shift from his techniques used in his Lamanlupa and Anilao series, proceeding to gestural abstraction. In 2014, Carating presented his works done in 2013 in his aptly titled exhibit, Last Full Show, which “reflect the continuing commitment of the artist to his personally distinctive style. This style of grids and textured surfaces, and reminiscent of local hand looms (sinamay), convey an imposing yet quiet presence.” According to the press release, the earthy colors and suggestive textures also remind viewers of a place and time that is both comforting and reassuring, may it be a home or a Japanese sand garden.