Since her debut in March 2023, Tet Gallardo is making waves in the Philippine art scene. In under a year, she has secured four solo exhibitions across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao and participated in two group shows in Bacolod City.
As her sorority sister, I had the privilege of attending the launch of one of her solo exhibits, thanks to Tet’s personal invitation. She may not be a native of Bacolod, but her frequent visits and extended stays made her feel like an “adopted daughter” of the city.
Tet Gallardo Explores “Undepicted” Aspects of Filipino Culture
Tet Gallardo, through her art, delves into the “undepicted” aspects of Filipino history and culture, exploring obscured and forgotten parts of our heritage. Her work confronts collective shadows and inequalities, resonating with global issues such as colonialism, human rights, and identity struggles. As renowned mental health expert Dr. Gabor Mate states, “Not being seen is traumatic.”
Challenging the Colonial Mentality
Tet’s work challenges the lingering colonial mentality where whiteness is seen as superior. This “white lens” has inflicted wounds on the Filipino psyche, influencing even seemingly progressive individuals. They may unconsciously mimic “elitist” English accents or project an air of superiority, mirroring the power dynamics of a dollar-earning over a peso-spending society. Even “radical students” can fall prey to this, failing to recognize their own biases against those who don’t conform to this imposed standard.
WHITE IS THE DIMMEST COLOR: Tet Gallardo solo exhibit
Tet Gallardo’s exhibit entitled, WHITE IS THE DIMMEST COLOR, flips the script on color perception. It proposes that white, by obscuring and diminishing anything that doesn’t fit its narrow definition of beauty, is actually the “dimmest” color. This challenges traditional color theory.
A Nuanced Explanation of Color
- White Light: White light combines all colors of the spectrum, but when it hits a surface, the surface absorbs some wavelengths and reflects others, creating the colors we see.
- Paint Mixing: In paint mixing, adding white weakens and desaturates colors, essentially dimming them.
- Black Light: Black absorbs all visible light. However, when mixed with other colors, it creates a richer, deeper effect, making them more vibrant. Black backgrounds also enhance the vibrancy of other colors by providing contrast. White, in contrast, drowns them out.
Tet’s use of color theory serves as a powerful metaphor for her message, challenging the dominance of “whiteness” and its tendency to obscure and diminish other perspectives.
Beyond the Obvious: Unveiling the Power of Abstract Art
More Than Meets the Eye
Abstract expressionism often faces skepticism or confusion. Representational art feels more familiar, offering a glimpse into the artist’s vision and a sense of shared truth. However, abstract art isn’t just random paint splatters – it’s a diverse and thought-provoking movement.
A World of Interpretation
Abstract art transcends physical reality, opening itself to a vast range of interpretations. A single piece might embody ideas of morality, spirituality, or the nature of art itself. Some works may even hint at recognizable forms, creating a spectrum of abstraction.
This approach allows viewers to engage with the art on a deeper level, emotionally or conceptually. It challenges the idea that art needs to be a perfect copy of reality. Instead, abstract art explores how visual elements can convey ideas, feelings, and experiences that go beyond the physical world.
The Enthrallment of Minimalism
The inclusion of minimalist white pieces adds a layer of depth to the exhibit. The stark simplicity invites questions about how these works will interact with the other pieces and the overall experience.
Bacolod’s Vibrant Art Scene
Bacolod has a vibrant art scene and has hailed many artists, making it a fitting backdrop for Tet’s thought-provoking work. Abstract Cafe & Gallery, where the exhibit is held, has been open since December last year. They have hosted various art exhibits and hold art lessons. Plus, they have delicious coffee, too.
You can check out the exhibit that runs from July 28 to August 30, 2024 at Abstract Cafe & Gallery. Visit their Facebook page for more details of the exhibit or call 0992 454 2937 for inquiries. Abstract Cafe and Gallery is located at Northpoint Atrium Building, BS Aquino Drive, Bacolod City, Philippines.