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

ABOUT THE WORK

The Oxford English Dictionary defines “coalesce” as “to bring together, merge; to combine (parts or elements) to form one whole.” Ramon Orlina, the glass virtuoso, brings out the magnificent delicacy of glass as a medium to expound on the definition of the term visually and creatively. In this piece aptly titled Coalesce, Orlina seamlessly bonds two separate pieces of carved glass into one visual display of sculptural magnificence. The sculptures are supported by a wooden base that serves as both their foundation and a “bridge” that “connects” them. The point of confluence where the two sculptures meet engenders a compelling optical illusion, resulting in a piece that elicits further artistic survey and brings out the creative exploration of thoughts in every viewer. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in architecture, which he obtained from the University of Santo Tomas in 1965, Orlina’s ingenuity weds integrity of form and balance. When viewed at a certain angle and distance, especially at the point of confluence, the sculptures seemingly form a mountain with sharp edges and a steepness so sheer that one can imagine an experienced hiker climbing with the aid of ropes and other mechanical devices. The work then becomes a microcosm of a breathtaking vista. (Adrian Maranan)