Manny M Rubio
Back to Nature
In my 2010-2013 selected series of works, I explored taking a more profound approach with the same medium, but incorporating a different style. By mixing thin overlays and coatings of paint to obtain a watercolor-like effect, I brought new dimensions of conventional subjects to life. These artworks are inspired by the captivating scenery of Dragon’s Back, a popular Hong Kong trail which offers an invigorating hiking experience that makes you keep coming back for more. The route undulates along the ridge of a thin peninsula jutting into the South China Sea before plunging back down the mountainside. The trail starts with a tranquil stroll through a thick forest that rings with the harmonic sound of bird songs and streaming water. The glory of it all is that you are so close to the city, yet could hardly feel farther away.
Colors of Emotion
This vibrant 2008-2009 series of selected works confronts viewers with innermost feelings and emotions all translated into bold hues, ambiguous shapes and fluid dripping lines of colors. It is a showcase of a natural, instinctive state of mind derived from one’s circumstances, mood or relationships with others and characteristic of particular feelings.
Global Warming
This series of works focuses on one of the more meaningful and pertinent subjects facing our world today, particularly those that raise awareness on issues concerning global warming. The paintings on marine life lead viewers to admire the beauty of our undersea paradise which could hopefully be the last unspoilt frontier. Indeed, people’s modest but sincere contributions could spell a great difference in the ongoing struggle for nature’s preservation and the survival of humanity.
Fish in Mind
Fish are one of my favorite subjects in art, be it in painting or sketching. In this selection of artworks, I explored the idea of pouring several layers of thick enamel paint to create the perfect texture and bring an added dimension of life to this subject. Each ceramic plate took several months to complete the process. But the journey was worth it as the result turned out to be far more realistic than what I had expected.
Drawings
on a Square
Given the universality of drawing as a form of visual expression, it is widely regarded as one of the major forms within the visual arts. To get back to the basics, I set aside the computer as a tool in favor of a pen or pencil when creating basic sketches. The end result produced a more refined and gentle touch than anything that could have been achieved by using modern graphic software.
Drawing within, on, around, and beyond a square – these are the various ways of describing the physical limitations of expressing one’s artistic urge within a confined space. It is a common ground encountered by artists and an accepted constraint in expressing one’s passions and artistic techniques. Squaring off, in, up, and down – these drawings offer another perspective of viewing the psychological restraints of an artist. Think of a “square” as a metaphorical state of mind. In this unprecedented show of artworks, the idea of the “square” is explored – whether as a geometric entity or as a sense of confinement.
Early
Works
Watercolor is a great medium for many subjects and purposes. The result is a color that’s intriguing, varies slightly across the area you’ve applied it, not flat and consistent. I truly believe that an artist could spend a lifetime exploring medium, colors and the results. There are just so many possibilities.
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