Primer: Rovi Salegumba

Rovi Salegumba was born on 1984 in Manila. Graduated from University of the Philippines, College of Fine Arts, Major in Visual Communication. He received a Grand Prize award for his painting entitled “Become” at the 2006 National Shell Painting Competition.

His subject stylized human figures, faces nature and birds his personal metaphor for soul. Rovi works range of unique painting techniques. A very sharp, clean lines influence by his background in digital art. Clean and “controlled” Impasto technique as opposed to the free-flowing and somewhat “chaotic” impasto in most paintings.

Rovi’s sources of inspirations in poetry, literature, music for both classical and contemporary. Works from the Renaissance, Pre-Raphaelite as well as modern/contemporary art and works of Gustav Klimt and Hieronymus Bosch. His personal experiences, as well as fascinating and inspiring stories related to me by people he knows.

What inspired you to become an artist?

     My Family. I am very fortunate to be raised in a family of artists. My grandfather was a student of National Artist Fernando Amorsolo back in the 1940s and I grew up surrounded by his inspiring, technically-rendered paintings. My father – though he took up architecture – found more artistic expression as an ice sculptor and in-house artist for several 5 star hotels & later on channeling his creativity through landscape design. Their artistic careers are a major influence on my own.

    I am also inspired by art’s ability to express ideas and emotions, and its capacity to make me, as an artist, feel seen and understood.

What was your first exhibit like?

    It was a group exhibit in 2006. I just started experimenting with oil paint, but on impulse submitted one of my very first paintings to the Shell national painting competition. Surprisingly, It got included in the exhibition and also ended up winning the grand price in the oil painting category! It was literally a life changing exhibit which further encouraged me to pursue a career in the arts.

What are you currently working on?

   I am currently working on several commissioned paintings as well as some pieces for galleries and upcoming exhibits.

What is your process like?

   I once read an old book called “Creative Dreaming” by Dr. Patricia Garfield Ph.D. There are several techniques presented in that book that helps artists explore their subconscious mind and discover creative ideas. A lot of my paintings are created after visiting that “art gallery in my mind”.

   (In retrospect, maybe that is why all of the human figures I paint have closed eyes, perhaps they are also dreaming/ meditating..)

What was the most valuable thing you learned doing your art?

     Authenticity. Art is one of the purest forms of self-expression, so it is of utmost importance to be true to my vision and not just paint what I think the viewers or critics will have a positive response to. A lesson I am still in the process of learning.

     Related to that, I also learned to not be too caught up with the end results, and find more joy and fulfillment in the creative process itself.

What is your favorite piece you’ve created?

As a proponent of “Kaizen” (The Japanese philosophy of continuous improvement), I would like to believe that each painting I make is better than the last. So my favorite piece would always be the last piece I’ve created. In this case: “Pamana” (Heritage), the painting that celebrates our rich and delightfully eclectic culture!

What is your favorite piece by another artist?

     My taste in modern art changes from moment to moment, but my fascination and admiration for classical art is consistent. I am constantly in awe of Renaissance art as well as 15th and 16th century Flemish paintings particularly the “Garden of Earthly Delights” by Hieronymus Bosch.

     Gustav Klimt’s intricate and ornate pieces are also a source of inspiration.

Why do you work in the medium that you do?

I like taking the time to fully focus on each detail of the painting, thus the slow-drying properties of oil paint is perfect for my pace. I also love the textures created by the medium as well as the rich, vibrant hues it can produce.

What is your favorite place to create in?

My home studio. With floor to ceiling windows and a clear polycarbonate roof it is designed to permit us much natural light as possible. I find being in a bright, clutter-free space very conducive for creativity. However, more than the physical space, I believe the mental and emotional state is more important. That is why before I even pick up the paintbrush I meditate in front of the canvas for about 10 to 15 minutes, making sure I am in a state where I can imbue the piece with serenity and positivity.