PLANNING JEF’S SECOND SOLO SHOW

It has already been more than two years since Jef had his first solo exhibition and I remember, it took us two years to prepare for that show.  Although we’ve been wanting to plan for a second show, Jef just didn’t have ample time to prepare since he also had several group show commitments in and out of the country the months following his solo show.

After the Affordable Art Fair in Hong Kong this year, we started discussing a second solo show with Ms. Susanne Tiausas, the owner of Galerie Francesca. We’ve decided that Jef will just finish two of his pending commissions this year and limit the release of his paintings in his upcoming group shows so we can gather enough paintings for his solo show. If the gallery can get a slot at an established art exhibit venue in Manila, we’re looking at late next year as a possible schedule. That way, Jef will have ample time to prepare.

Back in August, he finished his last two commissioned pieces for this year and by September he already started making pieces for his solo-show. Here are photos of the said commissioned paintings:

“The Clearing”, 32” x40”, Oil on canvas, Hubert Guevara collection, Philippines

"The Clearing", installed at Mr. Guevarra's residence

“Dream Weaver”, 40” x 32”, Oil on canvas, Ferdie Hernandez collection, Philippines. This piece is intended  to be displayed at the office of Congressman Hernandez of South Cotabato, a part of his tradition he is proud of. 

“Dream Weaver” is a portrait of renowned dream weaver Lang Dulay , a National Living Treasure awardee in T'nalak Weaving (Manlilikha ng Bayan) a prestigious award given to her in 1998. After garnering her esteemed award, Lang Dulay opened the Manlilikha ng Bayan Center to focus on the preservation of the awe-inspiring art of T'boli textile weaving by training other T'boli weavers in this time; in doing so ensuring that the T'boli weavers continue to dream these magnificent patterns that take shape on the loom.

TINALAK WEAVING:
T'nalak weaving undoubtedly hailed as South Cotabato's ultimate cultural emblem is a traditional masterpiece of geometric patterns dreamt to life by T'boli women, uniquely known as "Dreamweavers" who translate their dreams into intricate patterns of intensely colored abaca fibers.

Just like any other other artist who is preparing for a major show, I had to make sure Jef has enough materials. A few days ago after doing my regular inventory, I ordered online and received additional 93 pcs., 200 ml tubes of oil paint. We have a total of 279 tubes in stock and should last for a year or two. Jef consumes too much paint because of his impasto technique so lately, I‘ve always ordered in bulk. Also, he still has around 47mtrs in a 72” width canvas and around 25mtrs in a 60” width canvas so I think that is just enough for the coming months.

As of today, the 3rd of October I received news that there are only 3 remaining small works (in size 16” x 14”) consigned at the gallery that they can offer for sale. They have no other pieces to offer to clients and they still keep receiving inquiries. We also have no other artworks of his on-hand so we are very thankful for the overwhelming demand for his work and the support of his collectors.Once we finalize the date and venue for his second solo-show, I'll surely keep you guys updated. Thank you all for your support.