ABOUT THE WORK

Contemporary Filipino artist Andres Barrioquinto’s whimsical, dreamlike rendition of a women’s faces floating in water complemented by the tentacles in this painting, albeit not erotic, reminds one of Japanese artworks of the woman and the octopus. Barrioquinto himself has produced works influenced by Japanese heritage, using its traditional patterns. His overlays are also inspired by the ukiyo-e, woodblock prints from the Edo period in Japan. There is a hint of darkness, seriousness, and gloom in the surreal and hyper-realistic faces he depicts which show even in their calm facial expressions. In this work, the subdued hues add to its overall provocativeness. Barrioquinto’s enigmatic works that showcase his distinct style developed through the years of his artistic practice have made him receive wide acclaim and following in the country and abroad. In 2003, he was one of the recipients of the Thirteen Artists Award from the Cultural Center of the Philippines.