Renowned Filipino artist Manuel Baldemor’s latest exhibition, Bulkang Taal: Bangon Batangas will be held from February 28 to March 5, 2020, at the SM Mall of Asia Central Atrium, Level 2.
A collection of paintings depicting the destructive aftermath of the Taal Volcano eruption and the formidable power of nature, it is also an exhibition for a cause as a portion of the proceeds from the exhibition will go towards displaced communities of the Taal Volcano eruption.
Baldemor, who hails from Paete in Laguna, was outside the Paete city hall when Taal Volcano erupted and witnessed the sky transform into a towering grey and purple mass.
Quietly observing the scenery and the people affected by the volcano’s wrath, he saw how the towns surrounding the Taal Lake had transformed overnight – the complete devastation, displaced evacuees, and animals that were left behind.
In contrast to his distinct style and use of vibrant and happy colours, Baldemor captures Taal in its turbulent and solemn state, and Taals once lush, green vistas are portrayed as desolate and barren landscapes an aide-memoire that nature is both beautiful yet can be turbulent and angry.
Manuel Baldemor is a painter, sculptor, printmaker, writer and book illustrator from the artistic town of Paete, Laguna province renowned for its woodcarvers. Known for beautifully capturing the warmth of Christmas in the Philippines, Baldemor has contributed more than 24 designs for reproduction on UNICEʼs greeting cards for worldwide distribution.
