GALLERY: IN THE FAR EAST @ARTANTON

In the Far East

Olivia d’Aboville, Jo Balbarona, Jonathan Benitez, Marius Black, Richard Buxani, Ferninand Cacnio, Janos Delacruz, Pepe Delfin, Khervin Gallandez, Kish Javier, Rico Lascano, Otto Neri, Jomike Tejido, JC Vargas and Yelcast explore interpretations and intersections, of the East.

As a marker of space, what does the east mean?

In the Far East displays an array of impulses that are connected by the concept of a geographical space. The exhibit looks into urgencies defined by ethnicity, racial diversity, notions of nations, and identities tied to land and territory. From referencing cultural artifacts to depictions of mundane life, the collection looks into the meaning of the east as experienced and imagined by the artists. The works dwell on associations but at the same time manifest a form of othering. The valuation and understanding of the concept of an east signal the existence of contradictions, a thesis and anti-thesis, the east versus the west, a discussion on the relations of power which cannot be escaped with a theme loaded with social, political, and economic implications.

As a marker of identity, what does the east mean?

On the other hand, the idea of the east establishes cultural affinities and evokes sentimentalities of traditions and kinships imbuing romantic intimations of shared backgrounds. Labels and categorizations become instances to identify, relate, and develop tendencies and inclinations. It motivates one to sympathize, to recognize commonalities, and to create opportunities for solidarity.

The idea of the east whether as a marker of space or identity is complex. To find  sense it what it means, perhaps one can borrow and reflect instead on the poem by Rudyard Kipling. In The Ballad of the East and West, he wrote, “OH, East is East, and West is West, and never the twain shall meet, Till Earth and Sky stand presently at God’s great Judgment Seat; But there is neither East nor West, Border, nor Breed, nor Birth, When two strong men stand face to face, tho’ they come from the ends of the earth!.” | JA

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Art Anton is located at G/F, S Maison, Marina Way, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City