Leo Gali’s 1st solo exhibition, titled “Phases/Faces” will open on February 22, 2025, at 2:00 P.M., at the Panublion Museum in Roxas City. 

The exhibition is a depiction of Gali’s extraordinariness—how he intertwined the disciplines he honed through the years, from architectural drafting, educator who teaches social studies and art among high school students, book illustrator, and as an editorial cartoonist of the Capiz Times.

Phases/Faces is like a threading back through time among Gali’s followers, collectors of his art, and students. It will show Gali’s development as an artist and as a professional. The collection is curated like a tapestry of his life, highlighting his explorations and transformations—an embodiment of his evolution vis-à-vis the different phases of his life and how it shaped a nuanced face for both the artist and his art.

The exhibition defines Gali’s remarkable versatility that spans from the stark contrasts of black-and-white editorial illustrations and cartoons to the vibrant, expressive colors of acrylics and watercolors.

Much of his work showcases a keen eye for detail and storytelling, seamlessly bridging rural and urban design concepts, inspired by his family, drawn out from personal experiences, and through his everyday interaction with people from marginalized communities.

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Gali has become synonymous with his cubism style and elaborate geometrical-inspired visualizations on canvas, which reflect his deep connection to both his heritage and contemporary life, showing his mastery of architectural drafting, constantly experimenting with shapes, and exploring new mediums to enrich his creative process.

He is known among peers to be more gratified in projects that are locally developed and which resonate with his roots—illustrating books for indigenous communities, contributing cartoons to local newspapers, and selflessly mentoring the next generation of artists. As a founding member of Figura Paniteño, he actively nurtures young talent, fostering creativity and resilience in the emerging artists of tomorrow.

His impact, however, extends beyond the canvas and expands from his locality. His art has been featured in galleries nationwide, like the GSIS Museum and UP Diliman’s Bulwagan ng Dangal, among others, and also through various group shows across the archipelago. His works were also celebrated in various competitions; particularly, among them was a work shortlisted in the GSIS National Painting Competition in 2018.

Leo Gali (b. 1974) is a Capizeño from Panitan town, a 3rd-class municipality in the 1st District of Capiz Province. Its capital, Roxas City, is dubbed the “Seafood Capital of the Philippines” because of its abundant marine resources and the freshest seafood.

Visit the Panublion Museum starting February 22 and marvel at Leo Gali’s work in “Phases/Faces.”

Credits: 
Photos and images were taken from the Facebook posts of the artist.