Nine of the Philippines’ top contemporary artists are currently making waves in Jakarta, Indonesia, as part of the group exhibition “Possession: To Have & To Hold,” curated by Joyce Toh at Gajah Gallery.
The exhibition, which runs from August 10 to September 8, 2024, showcases the works of renowned Filipino artists Benedicto “BenCab” Cabrera, Kawayan de Guia, Kiri Dalena, Leslie de Chavez, Marina Cruz, Mark Justiniani, Nona Garcia, Rocky Cajigan, and Rodel Tapaya. These artists have made significant contributions to the modern art scene and are celebrated for their unique styles and powerful narratives.
The event was officially opened by H.E. Gina A. Jamoralin, the Philippine Ambassador to Indonesia, who served as the guest of honor. Notably, BenCab and Justiniani, both National Artists of the Philippines and representatives of the country at the 2019 Venice Biennale, were also in attendance.
Gajah Gallery, with locations in both Singapore and Indonesia, has a history of collaborating with Filipino artists. The gallery’s director, Jasdeep Sandhu, expressed his admiration for Philippine art, saying, “Philippine artists are incredibly talented. Our gallery’s mission is to unite the region by encouraging Southeast Asian collectors to appreciate and collect works from Filipino artists and vice versa. Building these bridges is essential for our long-term progress as a Southeast Asian identity.”
Several of the featured artists have previously collaborated with Gajah Gallery’s Yogyakarta-based foundry, Yogya Art Lab, which has inspired them to explore new mediums such as bronze.
This exhibition is a testament to the vibrant and evolving art scene in the Philippines, and it highlights the growing recognition of Filipino artists on the international stage.