Survival of the Fittest Esquillo’s Visual Account of Philippine History and Society
Alfredo Esquillo Jr.'s artistic journey is marked by a deliberate shift from conventional norms to an exploration of the unfamiliar. Initially known for his precise social realism, Esquillo has transitioned to a realm of fantasy and surrealism, aligning with a directed vision of society and the world. His eclectic style draws from diverse international inspirations, transcending cultural boundaries. Whether expressing social commentary or delving into folk-inspired esotericism, Esquillo's art exhibits a level of intellectualism infused with poetic sensibility, evident across his body of work.
In this piece titled “Survivor P.I.” we are thrown into Esquillo’s meticulously crafted world. Here, four figures crowned in exaggerated and comically large and loud headpieces are circling around a female figure, slowly wrapping her in what appears to be streamers of some sort. In typical Esquillo fashion, the work itself is rife with social and political commentary. The four figures, with their humorous get-up, are seemingly stand-ins for the comically dubious nature of politicians and corruption, while the entrapped woman in the center is a metaphor for the public. Though seemingly tongue and cheek, Esquillo displays a level of awareness that elevates this to a much more refined level of discourse worthy of art. (Jed Daya)
Exhibited: Bank Indonesia Museum, 2nd CP Biennale, Jakarta, 5 September - 5 October 2005
Literature: Supangkat, Jim, Asmudjo Jon Irianto, Rizki A Zaelani, Marco Kusumawijaya, Shin Yi Yang, and Timothy O'Leary. CP Biennale 2005: Urban/Culture (Exhibition Catalog). Jakarta: CP Foundation, 2005. Published on the occasion of the Second CP Biennale at the Bank Indonesia Museum in 2005. Full-color spread on pages 140 to 141 and painting description on page 141.