ABOUT THE WORK

Tam Austria's artwork showcases a distinctly Filipino ensemble of characters that form the essence of his uncomplicated, rural paradise. Frequently centered around familial and traditional themes such as the Mother and Child motifs, depictions of the mythica or quasi-religious, or ordinary individuals immersed in labor, Austria's creations encapsulate the unpretentious Filipino way of life. In doing so, he highlights the allure of rural existence, which has now become a distant recollection in today's modern society. Another intriguing aspect of Austria’s practice is his aesthetic within the context of Filipino Modernism. Relatively speaking, a glance at the artists and artistic styles that developed during the 20th Century, one may notice a trend towards hard-edged, planar, and even geometric styles. Whether the work was one of Abstract Expressionism or done by a member of the Neo-Realists, it's hard not to notice their thematic disposition. Austria’s work can thus be seen as a relative breath of fresh air. His works seemingly contain softer-edges and a predominant use of pastels. All of which lead to a lighter, more hopeful, and more emancipatory feeling and attitude. (Jed Daya)