The still life paintings of Ofelia Gelvezón-Téqui, among works on exhibit at the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA), captivate the eyes with their delicate beauty. One couldn’t help but notice the impeccability of the masterpieces; the set exemplifies the grace and precision of the artist, showcasing Gelvezón-Téqui’s ability to elevate the mundane to the extraordinary.

Her works inspires us to notice the beauty in everyday items found at home and in our surroundings and the collection demonstrate the timelessness of the genre.

Three of her works—To a Good Friend, Double Happiness, and Qing Butterflies—invite viewers to pause, reflect, and appreciate the intricate details of everyday objects, as seen in the carefully arranged items like fine China porcelain plates, bowls, and pots with blooming orchids—a play of four-item composition all displayed on wooden consoles.

To a Good Friend seems to tell a story of intimacy and shared moments. The painting draws attention to the natural colors and intricate textures of valuable personal items, perhaps imbued with sentimental value to the artist. It highlights the emotional connections we have with our possessions, making the familiar appear exceptional and attractive.

Double Happiness, in contrast, presents an elegant composition of traditional Oriental symbols in the plate design and a hand-painted bowl. The rich hues and intricate patterns evoke feelings of joy and prosperity, drawing viewers into a world where beauty and good fortune converge. The piece also resonates with both cultural symbolism and aesthetic pleasure, reflecting the harmony of various shapes.

Meanwhile, Qing Butterflies transports viewers to a historical and natural realm, perhaps reflecting the Qing Dynasty’s appreciation for the beauty of butterflies. This piece highlights how the period incorporated nature into artistic expression, embedding symbols in fine porcelain designs. It subtly brings to the front-and-center the influence of elite dynasties on culture and art, evoking a sense of refinement in artistic creation.

More than just visual representations, the works of Ofelia Gelvezón-Téqui’s offer an intimate glimpse into the deeper meanings and emotions attached to everyday objects. Through her mastery of composition and color, she transforms simple elements into profound symbols of beauty, connection, and impermanence. Her art serves as a reminder of the fragile, transient nature of life, as well as the beauty in living creatures and the world around us.

About Ofelia Gelvezón-Téqui

Ofelia Gelvezón-Téqui, a renowned Filipina visual artist born on June 4, 1944, in Guimbal, Iloilo, Philippines, is celebrated for her pioneering contributions to Philippine printmaking. She specializes in copper-plate etching and viscosity color printing techniques, in addition to her work in painting. Now based in France, Gelvezon-Tequi continues to be recognized for her innovative artistry.

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Gelvezón-Téqui graduated from the University of the Philippines-Diliman with degrees in English (1966) and Fine Arts (1964). She furthered her studies at the Accademia di Belle Arti di Roma, where she earned a diploma in painting in 1967. A scholarship from the Rockefeller Foundation also allowed her to study graphic arts at the Pratt Institute.

Since 2005, she has lived with her husband, Marc Téqui, in the rural village of Limeuil, France. She often returns to the Philippines, creating art for a Filipino audience.

Sources:
1. Photos of art from https://gelvezontequi.wordpress.com/
2. Banner photo from IAL album ILOMOCA