Accompanied by a certificate issued by Ms. Gisella Olmedo-Araneta confirming the authenticity of this lot

Provenance: Private Collection, Manila

ABOUT THE WORK

This pastel on paper piece reveals the artistic approach of Onib Olmedo that goes beyond external appearances to explore the human spirit. The distortion and exaggeration of their features intend to evoke emotions, complexities, and the mental states of the human condition. Olmedo‘s abiding interest in people and the world matured in the streets of Manila, particularly in Malate and Ermita. He developed a deep sympathy for the masses, it did not matter to him if they were old and blind street performers or destitute women hustling foreigners. Although the artist’s oeuvres portray the inner torment experienced by mankind in modern times, his art has struck the hearts of many and his works remain to be popular among collectors. In 1990, Olmedo mounted his first and only show at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. (Isabella Romarate)