Joseph Espino’s second solo show entitled Inksight is set to launch at the Gateway Gallery in Araneta Center on March 15, 6:00 pm.
In this latest outing, Espino “drew” from his subconscious to come up with a body of work that is both fresh and distinct. His surrealist artworks, drawings and sculptures tackle human conditions and the feelings that go with them.
Espino graduated from the University of San Agustin, Iloilo City with a degree in AB English. He spent most of his professional career as a graphic artist and art director, devoting 20 years in this creative field. Mostly self-taught as he did not have the chance to study art formally, Espino has recently retired from his graphic design and now spends time experimenting and creating new works as he redirects his career as a full-time fine artist.
Espino’s artistic excellence has been recognized by some of the country’s art organizations. The most recent was the Honorable Mention in the Sculpture Category in the GSIS National Art Awards. In 2003 and 2005, he was awarded Second Prize in the Drawing Category of the Art Association of the Philippine (AAP) competition. In 1997, he was a Finalist in the Shell National Arts Competition; and was Semi-Finalist in the Metrobank Young Painter Arts Award in 1998 and 1999. Even his school recognized his artistic talent with a 1995 Achiever’s Award in Literary and Arts. He was also a recipient of a CCP Grant in Hiligaynon Poetry in 1995.
Espino’s first solo exhibit, Memoirs of a Mirage, was in 2012. In the seven year gap between his first solo show and this year’s Inksight, he joined three other group shows in Manila. Inksight is something to look forward to as it will serve as barometer of Espino’s growth and artistic maturity.
Inksight will run at the Gateway Gallery located at the 5/F Gateway Tower, Araneta Center, Quezon City until March 25, 2019. The Gallery is open Monday to Sunday from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm; Entrance is free. For inquiries, you may call 588-4000 local 8300; email [email protected].