Provenance: Provenance: Private Collection, Manila

ABOUT THE WORK

Inspired by the perya he used to visit in his youth, Arturo Luz transforms the figures of circus performers—from the cyclists to the jugglers—into calculated blocks, lines, forms, and shapes. Color is straightforward and curves are precise, making his series of circus performers unique in composition and sought after by various art collectors. Essential elements are composed in such a way motion is displayed. In this Juggler piece, Luz’s signature noclutter approach to abstraction, linear simplicity, and geometric technique are revealed. Playfulness and fun are hinted, qualities often noted on his abstractions. Luz’s preference for the stark, elemental, and simple reflects in his works, in effect making him a pioneer of Philippine minimalism.