Accompanied by a certificate issued by Gisella Olmedo - Araneta confirming the authenticity of this lo

Provenance: León Gallery, The Magnificent September Auction 2017
September 29, 2017 02:00 PM, Makati City, 29 September 2017, Lot 50

ABOUT THE WORK

Longing and Despair Onib Olmedo and the Human Spirit The works of Onib Olmedo overflow with sympathy and feeling for the marginalized, the poor, and the oppressed. Whether it be a distorted portraiture, a hazy vision of a music club, or the urban jungle he has spent his life in, Onib translates the struggles of the masses with the utmost respect they deserve, In this work, one could feel the quiet dejection that permeates the piece. Though not as distorted as the usual Onib figure, the boy’s dejected facial expression reveals the despair he is feeling. Beside him is an empty cage which further fuels questions and possible interpretations. Has he lost a beloved pet? The empty cage suggests so. This work is a beautiful portrait of acceptance and loss, a particular strength of Onib. As he beautifully weaves a story within his canvases, he is exceptionally honest with his subjects – he depicts their suffering without diluting it. Still, he reminds his viewers that hope is not lost, should one hold on. (Hannah Valiente)