Born in 1984 and raised in Lemery Batangas, Emman Acasio got a scholarship at the University of Sto. Tomas where he received his BFA in 2005, Cum Laude. He worked full-time in Singapore as an Art Director but has always found time to pursue his passion for the arts, particularly painting. Emman currently resides in Antipolo City, close to the character of his works—nature. Emman’s primary influence is his father, Lino Acasio, who has also made a mark in the industry with his signature landscape paintings.
Similarly, their works boast of having immense attention to detail and the ability to capture the local colors of the province. However, Emman gives his works a modern spin by depicting magnified details of still life, transformed into a “mythical island” and frequently housed with mostly anthropomorphized and evolved animals. Thus, Emman’s fictional landscapes may be reminiscent of childlike fantasies and dioramic scenarios, a world of alternate reality where fish fly and birds swim. Emman adds a more personal touch to his works by including an alien-like representation of himself which he calls “Emanoids”. Both cartoonish and playful, Emmanoids depict Emman being part of the world he created. Emman also opts to discipline himself to paint only those that are organic, therefore eliminating anything that is man-made. With themes varying from everyday situations, literature, and sometimes even social issues, Emman frequently features endangered animals in the Philippines like the pawikan and tarsier to promote their cause, and more importantly as a sign of his global climate change advocacy. This lush utopia urges us to look closer and explore an isolated mythical landscape, invoking within us both our privilege and responsibility as stewards of God’s creation.
What inspired you to become an artist?
My Father. Being an artist himself, naturally, I grew up not only learning about the fundamentals first hand but loving and becoming passionate about art. I was always known to be an artist both in school and in our community and I believe art has formed me. Having joined contests in elementary and high school has given me the confidence that I was good in art and somehow gave me direction too. It is because of art that I was able to explore and create and that’s why I have always known in my heart that I will be an artist.
What was your first exhibit like?
It was a dream. I started to paint at a very young age but it took me 3 decades to put up my first solo. I was always hesitant and I promised myself that I will have my first solo when I am really ready. Some say that I waited too long, I might have, but it’s all worth it.
My first exhibit was actually about my hometown so it was very special to me. Plus the attendance in the opening was very overwhelming and to top it all off, a big bonus that all my artworks were sold out. So yeah, it was a dream.
What are you currently working on?
Besides the art masks that I desgined in collaboration with Obra Clothing, I am currently working on my piece for a group show for Canvas gallery this month. I also have a series of solo shows lined-up: this December in Altro Mondo, Feb 2021 in Galerie Stephanie and by mid 2021 in Art Verite. Definitely a lot on my plate right now!
What is your process like?
Spontaneity. I have this giant cork board where I pin and collect random thoughts and from there piece them together to become an art work. Or sometimes, I start with a theme or message then compose using random objects popping to mind.
What was the most valuable thing you learned doing your art?
Patience. Indeed patience is the key! Being an artist is a constant struggle. There will come a time when you start questioning yourself. Is it all worth it? Will it work? Is it needed? Are you making an impact? But I learned that all will be answered if you just chill and be patient.
What is your favorite piece you’ve created?
I can’t single out a piece but in terms of the most memorable, I must say it’s my thesis, “Pamanang Yaman” a book illustration which tackled the distinct personality of each of the 17 regions of the Philippines. It’s the most memorable because it’s the “Outstanding Thesis of the Year” and the only thesis that received a flat “uno”. But aside from the credit I received, it was memorable because I devoted my whole self to complete it. I remember painting day and night, skipping school breaks, holidays and even special occassions. All these while being haunted by the terror of presenting to the jury which in fact gives me chills until now when I think about it. Definitely tops my most memorable pieces list!
What is your favorite piece by another artist?
I love works by different artists like Jacek Yerka, Mark Ryden, Kris Kuksi, Greg Simkins and Josh Keyes to name a few. But if I have to choose one piece, it will be cheesy but I will choose Van Gogh’s “Starry Night”. It is a classic example of what art is. A timeless beauty. This piece makes me feel what Van Gogh was feeling- the struggle, the passion, the depression all together. It was considered a product of a lunatic then but now, a genius.
Why do you work in the medium that you do?
Well, because there are secrets in acrylic painting that’s only between me and my father, haha! Also, I am allergic to the smell of oil paint that is why I’ve been using acrylic my entire life. With the new acrylic mediums and additives available in the market right now, there is more to explore to this medium.
What is your favorite place to create in?
None yet haha! I’m still still dreaming for a perfect place or studio. But I do enjoy sketching in an open space like in my hometown- Lemery, Batangas, facing the Balayan Sea.
