Provenance: The Vincent Price Collection

ABOUT THE WORK

Tabuena's early years were shaped by a rich cultural environment infused with traditional Filipino customs and folklore. His exposure to the vibrant local festivals, the natural beauty of the Philippines, and the everyday lives of its people formed the foundation of his artistic sensibilities. His upbringing in Iloilo, known for its sugarcane plantations and rural landscapes, instilled in him a deep connection to nature and the realities of rural life, which would later become prominent themes in his art. But Tabuena’s art would eventually bloom even further when, in 1955, the artist would further his studies in art at the Institute Allende and would decide to permanently settle in San Miguel de Allende. During this period, Tabuena’s art would occupy a unique place of being informed not only by two cultures, but by two cultures that despite the distance share a history of being both former colonies of Spain. Thus, things such as religion, societal practices, and even language are considered to be commonalities between the two nations. Which is why it is no surprise that Tabuena’s depiction of Mexican life and culture seems so at home with the distinctly Filipino roots of his technique. (J.D.)